Why should high air speeds be avoided in turbulent conditions?

High air speeds should be avoided in turbulent conditions primarily due to the risk of retreating blade stall. This phenomenon occurs in rotorcraft, particularly in conditions where the blades encounter differing wind speeds. When the aircraft experiences turbulence, the retreating blades, which move against the relative wind during flight, may not generate enough lift if the airspeed is too high. As a result, the blades can stall, leading to a loss of control and potentially resulting in serious flight complications.

Maintaining a lower airspeed in turbulent conditions helps to ensure that all rotor blades can effectively produce lift and remain in stable operation. This practice is crucial for pilot safety and aircraft control, as high speeds can exacerbate the effects of turbulence, increasing the likelihood of encountering situations that lead to blade stall. Hence, understanding the dynamics of rotorcraft in relation to airspeed and turbulence is essential for safe flying practices.