Meteorology

Microburst

Definition

A small-scale intense downdraft that produces damaging divergent winds at the surface. Microbursts can cause an aircraft to first gain then rapidly lose airspeed and altitude during approach, with fatal consequences.

Related Terms

Wind Shear

A sudden change in wind speed or direction over a short distance. Low-level wind...

Thunderstorm

A convective weather phenomenon producing lightning, heavy rain, turbulence, hai...

Go-Around

The procedure of abandoning an approach or landing attempt and climbing away for...

Test your knowledge

Think you understand Microburst? Challenge yourself with practice questions covering meteorology and all other ATPL subjects.

Start a Practice Quiz

Or browse all questions by subject