How should a pilot manage power when encountering a shift from a tailwind to a headwind?

When a pilot encounters a shift from a tailwind to a headwind, the best approach is to reduce power initially, then increase it as needed. This is because a tailwind can provide additional lift and speed, allowing the aircraft to maintain sufficient energy with less engine power. As the wind shifts to a headwind, the effective airspeed decreases, which can lead to a loss of lift.

By reducing power at the start, the pilot can conserve fuel and maintain control of the aircraft without over-speeding or over-controlling. Once the transition is complete and the aircraft begins to experience the increased resistance from the headwind, the pilot can assess the aircraft's performance and power requirements and then adjust power accordingly to maintain the desired airspeed and altitude.

This gradual management of power allows for smoother handling of the aircraft and helps avoid potential abrupt adjustments that might compromise safety or stability. By understanding the wind's effect on performance, pilots can better match their power settings to the changing flight conditions.