Work out headwind component instantly with clear inputs, formula shown and shareable results.
The angle between the reported wind direction and the runway heading is resolved with cosine for the along-runway (head or tail) component and sine for the crosswind. A negative headwind result is a tailwind, which lengthens the take-off run and the landing distance.
Wind components
Headwind = wind x cos(wind direction - runway heading); Crosswind = wind x sin(same angle)
Aviation results are planning estimates only. Always verify take-off, landing, fuel, weight and balance figures against the certified Aircraft Flight Manual, current performance charts and applicable aviation regulations before flight.
A negative along-runway component means the wind is behind you: a tailwind. Most take-off and landing charts limit the tailwind to 10 knots.
Use the actual magnetic heading of the runway centreline. Runway numbers are rounded to the nearest 10 degrees, so they can be up to 5 degrees off.