An aircraft follows TC 220° at TAS 220 kt with wind 270°/50 kt. What is the groundspeed?
Answer
185 kt
Explanation
The wind comes from 270°, nearly perpendicular to the 220° track but with a substantial opposing component. Resolving the wind vector along the track and combining it with the aircraft velocity gives the keyed groundspeed of **185 kt**. **Key takeaway:** Wind direction and track angle must be considered as vectors. **Glossary:** Wind vector: wind described by direction and speed.