What type of lift is primarily associated with ridges and mountains?

Ridge lift is the type of lift that is primarily associated with ridges and mountains. This phenomenon occurs when wind encounters a topographical barrier, like a ridge or mountain range. The airflow is forced upward as it meets the elevated terrain, creating an area of rising air.

Pilots can take advantage of this lift by flying along the ridgelines, where they can maintain altitude or gain height by circling in the rising air. Ridge lift can be particularly strong and persistent in certain wind conditions, making it a favored method for glider pilots looking to extend their flight times or travel distances.

While other types of lift like thermal lift (caused by the uneven heating of the earth’s surface), wave lift (generated by strong winds flowing over mountain ranges creating standing waves), and mechanical lift (related to variations in terrain causing disruptions in the airflow) play important roles in soaring, ridge lift specifically refers to the lift generated directly from ridges and mountainous terrain. This distinction is key for understanding how terrain influences soaring flight.