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PA.IV.E.R2cFAA-S-ACS-6C · Nov 2023Risk management

c. Tailwind

ACS element text (the applicant demonstrates understanding of)

Effects of: c. Tailwind

Bottom line

A tailwind that is 10 percent of the takeoff airspeed increases takeoff distance approximately 21 percent. Upslope or tailwinds on takeoff require greater acceleration than normal and, under some circumstances, prevent takeoff entirely. If airplane acceleration does not allow the airspeed to reach 70 percent of liftoff airspeed by the runway midpoint, the takeoff should be aborted.

FAA references

  1. PHAK ch. 11 (p. 11-15) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  2. 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)
  3. AIM 7-4-4 (Vortex Behavior) — AIM Basic 2/20/25 w/ Change 1 (8/7/25) & Change 2 (1/22/26)
  4. AFH Glossary (p. G-18) — FAA-H-8083-3C
  5. PHAK ch. 12 (p. 12-11) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
  6. AFH ch. 2 (p. 2-20) — FAA-H-8083-3C
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