If operating on compact snow, what is the maximum X-Wind?

If operating on compact snow, what is the maximum X-Wind?

• A. 38 knots
• B. 31 knots
• C. 20 knots
• D. 18 knots

Answer: (C)

The main factor here is surface friction and how it affects directional control. On compact snow, tire grip is reduced, so keeping the aircraft on the runway centerline during takeoff or landing becomes more challenging when there’s any crosswind. To preserve controllability and safe steering, the crosswind limit is lowered. That’s why the maximum X-Wind for compact snow is 20 knots. If winds exceed this, takeoff or landing should be postponed or conditions should be improved, because the aircraft may not maintain runway alignment as reliably. The higher figures would apply to drier surfaces where directional control is better, while the lower figure reflects the degraded control on compact snow.

The main factor here is surface friction and how it affects directional control. On compact snow, tire grip is reduced, so keeping the aircraft on the runway centerline during takeoff or landing becomes more challenging when there’s any crosswind. To preserve controllability and safe steering, the crosswind limit is lowered. That’s why the maximum X-Wind for compact snow is 20 knots. If winds exceed this, takeoff or landing should be postponed or conditions should be improved, because the aircraft may not maintain runway alignment as reliably. The higher figures would apply to drier surfaces where directional control is better, while the lower figure reflects the degraded control on compact snow.