AA.III.B.K2FAA-S-ACS-11A · Nov 2023Knowledge

Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.

Bottom line

A crosswind that exceeds an aircraft's demonstrated maximum crosswind component or the pilot's ability may result in loss of control on the ground.

Key numbers

Key numbers for Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.
NumberWhat it means
1 to 5 knots cross-runway component can keep the upwind vortex in the touchdown zoneCrosswind vortex

FAA references

  1. RMH ch. 3 (p. 3-7) — FAA-H-8083-2A
  2. AIM 7-4-4 (Vortex Behavior) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  3. PHAK ch. 12 (p. 12-8) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  4. AFH ch. 12, Operational Procedures (p. 12-4) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  5. PHAK ch. 11 (p. 11-16) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  6. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-8) — FAA-H-8083-23
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