Wind components

The calculation of the headwind (or tailwind) component is of paramount importance in the planning of two of the most critical phases of flight: the take-off and the landing.

In fact, the distances required for safe take-offs and for safe landings are very much influenced by the head or tailwind component.

These take-off and landing distances are usually calculated using the data provided in the performance section of the aircraft POH or equivalent.

Also, it is important to determine the crosswind component since every airplane has a maximum limit, regarding this component, for both take-offs and landings. These limitations can usually be found in the aircraft POH or equivalent.

The head or tailwind component is also very relevant during the other phases of flight, including the cruise phase, since such a component affects the groundspeed and, therefore, the flight time and the fuel consumption (see the Fuel planning page for more details). On the other hand, the cross wind component is also important to account for the drift. See also the Wind triangle page.

The mobile application allows you to practice the calculation of head/tail and crosswind components relative to the bearing of the runway in use (QFU) or to a given track. Have fun!