Comprehensive Study Guide
Runway Crosswind Component Study Guide
Master right-triangle trigonometry, demonstrated crosswind limits, gust factor math, and wet runway limits.
Editorially reviewed by the AviCalculator team
1. Orthogonal Wind Resolution
Surface wind striking a runway threshold splits into parallel Headwind and perpendicular Crosswind vectors.
- Crosswind Formula: Crosswind = WindSpeed × sin(θ) where θ is angle off runway heading.
- Memorize the crosswind clock face: examiners love the 30/45/60/90 benchmarks. A wind 30° off the nose puts roughly half its speed across the runway; at 45° expect about seven-tenths; at 60° nearly nine-tenths; and a full 90° crosswind means the entire reported speed is acting laterally. Drill these four ratios until they are instant recall under cockpit workload.
2. Checkride Tip
When ATIS reports gusting winds (e.g., 15 gusting 25 kts), always compute crosswind limits utilizing the peak 25-knot gust velocity. Furthermore, reduce personal crosswind limits by 50% on wet or hydroplaning asphalt.
Test Your Knowledge
You've reviewed the theory. Now apply it to real FAA/EASA checkride questions to verify your understanding.