Which source is considered most reliable for wind data when wind equipment is inoperative?

Which source is considered most reliable for wind data when wind equipment is inoperative?

• A. Active-end wind data
• B. Forecast wind data
• C. Inactive runway instrumentation
• D. Data from other airports

Answer: (C)

When wind sensors on the runway are inoperative, the best substitute is wind data from the runway’s own instrumentation that was recorded for that location. This data is the most reliable because it comes from the same site, with the same exposure to local influences, and has been calibrated and logged for that specific runway. It reflects actual conditions experienced at that location, making it more trustworthy than forecasts or data from distant airports. Active-end wind data isn’t available if the equipment is down, so it can’t be used. Forecast wind data is not as dependable for immediate operations since it’s an estimate of future conditions rather than current winds. Data from other airports may not represent the local wind patterns at your runway, reducing its reliability for touch-down and takeoff decisions.

When wind sensors on the runway are inoperative, the best substitute is wind data from the runway’s own instrumentation that was recorded for that location. This data is the most reliable because it comes from the same site, with the same exposure to local influences, and has been calibrated and logged for that specific runway. It reflects actual conditions experienced at that location, making it more trustworthy than forecasts or data from distant airports.

Active-end wind data isn’t available if the equipment is down, so it can’t be used. Forecast wind data is not as dependable for immediate operations since it’s an estimate of future conditions rather than current winds. Data from other airports may not represent the local wind patterns at your runway, reducing its reliability for touch-down and takeoff decisions.