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AI.VII.B.R2cFAA-S-ACS-25 · Nov 2023Risk management

c. Tailwind

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Effects of: c. Tailwind

Bottom line

A tailwind requires the aircraft to achieve a greater groundspeed to attain lift-off speed. A tailwind that is 10 percent of the takeoff airspeed increases the takeoff distance approximately 21 percent. The effect of wind on landing distance is identical to its effect on takeoff distance.

FAA references

  1. AFH Glossary (p. G-8) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  2. AFH ch. 9 (p. 9-27) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  3. PHAK ch. 11 (p. 11-15) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  4. AFH ch. 16 (p. 16-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  5. AIM 7-4-4 (Vortex Behavior) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  6. SEA ch. 6 (p. 6-8) — FAA-H-8083-23
  7. AFH ch. 5, Cross-Control Stall (p. 5-20) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  8. AIM 7-6-8 (Use of Runway Half-way Signs at Unimproved Airports) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
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