Wind maximums?

Question

I know the FARs define weather minimums for visibility and cloud separation, but do they define a point where it is too windy to fly? Also, I know the aircrafts have limitations. Which section could that be found in in the POH? I looked in Section 2, "Limitations" on a 172 POH but I did not see it.

Answer 1

if i recall correctly the max crosswind limit in a 172R is 17kts however it is NOT a legal limitation. there is no definition on when it's too windy to fly. it's up to the pilot. i've landed with excess of 30kts crosswind in a 172 in gusty conditions. come in slightly fast, flapless or F10 at most and watch the white arc. remember you may not have enough rudder authority to totally straighten up with very strong crosswinds.

Answer 2

I don't think the FAR defines crosswing limitations. Different aircraft have different limitations, but it is usually a pilot decision whether they can safely land the aircraft.



I know that a Lear 35 has a max crosswind limit of 25kts. That is because the amount of aileron required over 25kts would scrape the tip tanks.



The C-130J (actually the E and H as well) has a limit of 35 kts on a dry runway, but that goes down as the aircraft gets lighter and/or the RCR reading goes down. That being said, I have landed outside the recommended crosswind landing limit because I was flying into an island destination and my options were very limited. It was a sporty landing to say the least.

Answer 3

The only limitations on wind listed in any POH is the maximum demonstrated crosswind component. This doesn't mean you cannot land in a stronger crosswind, but until you get to be better than the test pilot, you'd best not do it.

Whatever wind you feel comfortable in is the limit for you.

I have landed a 152 into a 55 knot wind, and landed with 40 knot 90 degree crosswind. The 55 wasn't bad, the plane stopped in about 200 feet. The cross wind was bad, had to stand on the rudder pedal and use full throttle to get straight. Not fun!

Answer 4

Keep in mind that the maximum demonstrated crosswind component is a direct cross wind. Most Planes in the class of a 172 have around a 17 knot cross wind component, that is a direct cross wind. You can land in more windy conditions depending on the crosswind component, IE, 30 degree or less would be easier than a direct cross wind. The limitation usually comes from the Pilots ability as well as running out of Rudder authority to cross control and keep the nose of the Aircraft tracking straight down the runway while landing and aileron is needed into the wind direction to stop drift from side to side. One or the other will run out if the wind is too strong, then a cross runway is needed. 30 to 35 knots at around a 30 degree component is the most I like to tackle. I fly a PA 28-151.

Answer 5

There is no specific regulation on wind maximums for General Aviation aircraft.



The maximum demonstrated crosswind capacity shows that the airplane WILL be able to land at or under that crosswind speed.



Though you may land with a stronger crosswind, you're liable for any damage incurred as a result of attempting to make a landing in a strong crosswind.

Answer 6

All in all it depends on type , category and a/c specifications that you fly with ,however all air crafts have their own operating manual ,in that manual you can find max. allowable wind limits , however your company or organization may lessen these limits in their S.O.P,s due to upgrading safety .