RE: Downwind turn Myth
Highhorse is correct but only addresses an aircraft in a constant state. As a pilot of RC aircraft and full scale planes for many years I know that one can see obvious effects when you turn away from or into the wind. The factor not addressed is acceleration. An plane flying in a strong wind which quickly turns 'downwind" will not suddenly accelerate into the new airflow (wind). Depending on variables such as mass and drag the plane will take some time to accelerate to the new speed. During this time there can be a loss of speed and a resultant loss of lift. It is usually easily corrected with elevator application but the effect is real. The same thing can happen in reverse which is why many planes will climb as they turn into the wind.
Yes, a plane does not care what direction the wind is going, but it does care about changes in airspeed/lift. Nearly all of us have taken off into a strong wind and felt the plane try to sink out when we turn downwind. It's not imagined.........
Brad