iFly GPS Forum

I can see some difficulty, as you point out, for multi-runway airports particularly. Not insurmountable though. Could just broadcast for the one or two most used, and simply not include a component report anytime there wasn't a preferred runway.per the AWAS. And never when "wind calm" is in the report.

Our one runway AWOS typically reports "conditions favor runway three zero" or "Pilot's discretion".   Anytime "conditions favor runway three zero" is reported it would report "cross-wind-component for runway three zero is XX knots from the left" or right as case may be. Not do it under other conditions.

Getting the crosswind component simply and clearly audio stated SOMEtimes would be better than what we have now..... which is that even in the clearest and easy to calculate and report case it is NEVER broadcast. Leaving us to make seat of pants guesses.

Could be we (me) is confusing terms, but the airplane/aircraft does matter....

Contrary to what some pilots may think, an aircraft's maximum demonstrated crosswind component is only an operating limitation if the aircraft's manufacturer says so. It's not a limitation imposed by FAA regulations. During the type certification process, the FAA requires the manufacturer to demonstrate that its airplane can be controlled in 90-degree crosswinds up to 20% of Vso. The demonstration is performed by a test pilot who's not supposed to use exceptional skill or alertness. The FAA doesn't require that a manufacturer set limitations based on the demonstration, or even publish guidelines for gusty crosswinds that may briefly exceed the maximum demonstrated crosswind component. Pilots need to know what their airplane will or won't do in crosswinds unites pilots of light-sport aircraft, jet airliners and everything in between.

Great discussion, thanks!

Mike, N714AJ

Nice to know Xwind Component. My Dynon D10 gives me that. Really nice to have. Especially when upstairs in seeing wind effects. 

It is interesting to see the winds change as I travel and it is a great way to find best cruise altitude.

When I and my wingmen are on a long X country and bucking headwinds, I will climb or descend to find better winds.

You really can't depend on what you see in the winds aloft view on IFLY. They are general...not local.