Headwind is the component of the wind that blows directly opposite to the aircraft’s direction of flight. It’s an important parameter in aircraft design and aviation because it can significantly affect an aircraft’s performance during takeoff, landing, and cruise.
Formula for Headwind (HW): The formula for calculating headwind is straightforward:
- Headwind (HW): The component of the wind blowing directly opposite to the aircraft’s direction of flight, typically measured in knots (kt), meters per second (m/s), or kilometers per hour (km/h).
- Wind Speed: The total speed of the wind, typically measured in knots (kt), meters per second (m/s), or kilometers per hour (km/h).
- Wind Angle: The angle between the aircraft’s heading and the direction from which the wind is coming, measured in degrees (°).