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CA.IV.L.K2FAA-S-ACS-7B · 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

Ground topography and large buildings can break up the flow of the wind and create wind gusts that change rapidly in direction and speed.

Key numbers

Key numbers for Effects of atmospheric conditions, including wind, on approach and landing performance.
NumberWhat it means
2 or 3 knots laterally, when vortices of larger aircraft sink within 100 to 200 feet of the groundVortex drift
1 to 5 knots cross-runway component can hold the upwind vortex in the touchdown zoneCrosswind vortex

FAA references

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