An aircraft follows TC 040° at TAS 180 kt with wind 350°/30 kt. What is the groundspeed?
Answer
159 kt
Explanation
The wind is from 350°, producing a headwind component against the 040° route and a crosswind component. Resolving the wind triangle gives a groundspeed of approximately **159 kt**. **Key takeaway:** Do not treat crosswind as entirely headwind or tailwind. **Glossary:** Wind triangle: vector relationship among airspeed, wind, and groundspeed.