CROSSWIND LANDING  SOFT-FIELD LANDING HIGH-ALTITUDE LANDING  20-14 Figure 20-14. The airspeed used on a short-field approach is slower than that for a normal approach, allowing a steeper approach path and requiring less runway. A high-altitude landing assumes a density altitude near the limit of what is considered good climb performance When no wind exists, use a steep approach similar to a short-field landing so that the forward speed can be dis- sipated during the flare. Use the throttle to cushion the touchdown. Use the soft-field landing technique when the landing surface presents high wheel drag, such as mud, snow, sand, tall grass or standing water. The objective is to transfer the weight of the gyroplane from the rotor to the landing gear as gently and slowly as possible. With a headwind close to the touchdown speed of the  gyroplane, a power approach can be made close to the minimum level flight speed. As you increase the nose pitch attitude just prior to touchdown, add additional power to cushion the landing. However, power should be removed, just as the wheels are ready to touch. This results is a very slow, gentle touchdown. In a strong headwind, avoid allowing the gyroplane to roll rear- ward at touchdown. After touchdown, smoothly and gently lower the nosewheel to the ground. Minimize the use of brakes, and remain aware that the nosewheel could dig in the soft surface. On final approach, establish a crab angle into the wind to maintain a ground track that is aligned with the extended centerline of the runway. Just before  touchdown, remove the crab angle and bank the  gyroplane slightly into the wind to prevent drift. Maintain longitudinal alignment with the runway using the rudder. In higher crosswinds, if full rudder deflec- tion is not sufficient to maintain alignment with the run- way, applying a slight amount of power can increase rudder effectiveness. The length of the flare should be reduced to allow a slightly higher touchdown speed than that used in a no-wind landing. Touchdown is made on the upwind main wheel first, with the other main wheel settling to the runway as forward momentum is lost. After landing, continue to keep the rotor tilted into the wind to maintain positive control during the rollout. Crosswind landing technique is normally used in gyro- planes when a crosswind of approximately 15 m.p.h. or less exists. In conditions with higher crosswinds, it becomes very difficult, if not impossible, to maintain adequate compensation for the crosswind. In these con- ditions, the slow touchdown speed of a gyroplane allows a much safer option of turning directly into the wind and landing with little or no ground roll. Deciding when to use this technique, however, may be  complicated by gusting winds or the characteristics of the particular landing area.  making contact with the surface. [Figure 20-14] The approach speed must remain fast enough, however, to allow the flare to arrest the forward and vertical speed of the gyroplane. If the approach speed is too low, the remaining vertical momentum will result in a hard landing. On a short-field landing with a slight headwind, a touchdown with no ground roll is possi- ble. Without wind, the ground roll is normally less than 50 feet. 50' N o r m a l A p p r o a c h S h o r t F i e l d A p p r o a c h