Crosswind Calculator
Crosswind Calculator — decompose wind speed into crosswind and headwind/tailwind components. Useful for pilots assessing takeoff and landing safety.
Formula
Crosswind = Wind Speed × sin(angle)
Headwind = Wind Speed × cos(angle)
- Angle is measured from runway centerline
- Positive headwind = headwind; negative = tailwind
- Crosswind is always reported as absolute value
Crosswind Calculation
Inputs
- Wind Speed: 20 kt
- Wind Angle to Runway: 30 °
Wind speed 20 kt at 30° to runway: Crosswind = 20 × sin(30°) = 10 kt; Headwind = 20 × cos(30°) ≈ 17.3 kt.
Frequently asked questions
What is crosswind?
Crosswind is the component of wind perpendicular to the runway, affecting aircraft control during takeoff and landing.
What is headwind vs tailwind?
Headwind opposes aircraft motion (good for takeoff/landing); tailwind aids motion (risky for landing).
Why does crosswind matter?
Aircraft have maximum safe crosswind limits. Exceeding them risks runway excursion or loss of control.
How do I measure wind angle?
Wind angle is the deviation from runway heading. 0° = pure headwind; 90° = pure crosswind; 180° = pure tailwind.