The effect of winds on our aircraft
Last issue, we examined the fascinating science of meteorology and how pilots learn to recognise weather phenomena and their likely impact. We now extend that further by specifically exploring the effect of winds on our aircraft.
Predicting what to expect
We have seen that winds are caused by air movement as the atmosphere circulates around the globe and how that even from a basic meteorological synoptic chart, pilots can determine a likely wind direction and even relative strength. But the modern worldwide meteorological network allows scientists to generate far more accurate predictions or forecasts. Aviators enjoy among the most detailed forecasts available which are easily found online.