Original Message

I took a piston to the mountains early in my career and had to slow to 60 kts at max power just to get over the ridge. If I tried to go any faster RPM was going to suffer. The learning curve was steep.

There are situations in the mountains where you will not be able to out climb the down drafts, experienced pilot will know they signs and fly appropriately.

I've seen bell helicopters get mast bumping from updrafts with low g and incorrect controls inputs. Luckily everyone got home.

Thats only scratching the surface.

Flying in the mountains can be challenging at high DA and limited power. It's not for rookies.