If the crosswind capability is 0.2 V(SO) and V(SO) is 60 knots, which wind direction and speed would exceed this capability?

To determine which wind condition exceeds the crosswind capability of the aircraft, it’s essential to first calculate the crosswind limit. The crosswind capability is defined as 0.2 times V(SO). With V(SO) being 60 knots, the crosswind capability becomes:

0.2 x 60 knots = 12 knots.

Next, we should analyze each wind direction and speed given in the options to find the one that generates a crosswind component exceeding 12 knots.

When considering wind direction, the effective crosswind component can be calculated using the formula:

Crosswind Component = Wind Speed × sin(Theta)

where Theta is the angle between the wind direction and the runway heading. A wind direction that has a significant component coming across the runway will create a larger crosswind force.

The option identified as the correct answer, which is 260° at 20 knots, has to be examined closely. Given this wind direction, if we consider a standard runway alignment of 0° (north), the 260° wind is coming from the southwest. This angle presents a suitable sine calculation:

For a 260° wind:

• Calculate the angle or use a right triangle:

The crosswind component would be about

20 knots