SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/drone-microburst-downdraft-speed

A microburst's downdrafts can reach about how fast?

Up to 6,000 feet per minute, far more than a small drone can climb against.

Start playing free

  1. Up to 6,000 feet per minute ✔
  2. Up to 600 feet per minute
  3. Up to 60 feet per minute

Why: A microburst is the most severe kind of low-level wind shear. Its downdrafts can reach 6,000 feet per minute, so a drone caught in one can be pushed into the ground.

Huh, didn't know that: A typical microburst is only 1 to 2 miles across and lasts about 5 to 15 minutes.

The dad joke
Why did the drone avoid the microburst? It didn't want to get let down.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Up to 6,000 feet per minute. A microburst is the most severe kind of low-level wind shear. Its downdrafts can reach 6,000 feet per minute, so a drone caught in one can be pushed into the ground.

  1. Remote Pilot sUAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22), Chapter 3b www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/remote_pilot_study_guide.pdf
    it can produce downdrafts of up to 6,000 feet per minute (fpm)
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Flying & DronesFlying into a microburst, what does an aircraft usually meet first?Flying & DronesWhat is often the only visible clue that a microburst is happening?Flying & DronesLow-level wind shear is commonly associated with which of these?

That's stuff everyone should know.