"Dante" wrote in message
...
That is not a crosswind landing. It is or was the normal approach for Kai
Tak. I can't remember if it was buildings in the way or what precipitated
the requirement but it certainly had nothing to do with wind. Yes it
looks
impressive, maybe thats why they are well paid, 'course it's a doddle
compared to landing on a carrier deck in heavy seas.

Barbers Point Hawaii has a very similar approach. You come in straight
toward to the beach and as soon as you cross the 'surf line' you bank 90
degrees and line up on the runway. You don't have a lot of time to react and
you've really got to 'slam it over' to line up on the runway. In fact, the
Pilot is looking out his side window to see the runway and start the turn.