Information Sheet: In Flight Winds

INFORMATION SHEET

In Flight Winds

Information Sheet No. 4.6.1I

INTRODUCTION

While in flight, aircrew will periodically be required to fix the aircraft's position by visual or

electronic means. Once fixed, Track (actual flight path) and Ground Speed (distance

covered/time) can be determined. With the True Heading and True Airspeed, all the

information necessary to compute actual in-flight wind direction and velocity is available.

REFERENCES

INFORMATION

IN-FLIGHT WIND THEORY

The actual winds encountered in flight will often differ from the forecast winds. In order to

stay on the intended course, the Warrior-Navigator must be able to compute the actual

winds aloft using the information gathered during the flight. After takeoff from the departure

point and enroute to the destination, the aircraft position will periodically require fixing by

either visual or electronic means, or both. Once a fix is determined, Track as well as the

ground speed can be calculated. These values, combined with TH and TAS, can then be

inputted into the CR-3 to determine actual in-flight winds (Figure 6.2-1).

Figure 6.2-1 Wind Triangle

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