Maximum Demonstrated Crosswind Component

[hambone]

I just read some new info on the max demo xwind component the other day, and it said that the one found in the POH/AFM/PIM (for all you anal retentive people out there, me included) is set based on what an AVERAGE pilot can handle, and it continued to infer that it could easily be exceeded by an experienced pilot, and often is.

I always thought that the MD(x-wind)C was set by the test pilots designing the aircraft and that it was recommended that you not exceed it.

Funny story, I once landed a C152 (max demo xwind component is 12 kt) in a 14kt direct crosswind that was gusting to 19. Needless to say, it wasn't intentional and my approach and landing must have looked like this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtnL4KYVtDE

 

[PGT]

An airplane only has to demonstrate .3 of Vso (I think). What I heard is that they just use the highest crosswind during the testing phase.

Yes I read in some FAA publication and it mentioned average piloting abilities.

Now regarding T/o & landing distances, some channel did a study with 3 airplanes and not 1 made the distances published in the POH.

 

[E_Dawg]

Regardless of the numbers, at some point you'll run out of rudder in the xwind correction. The reported wind is just what it was when the measurement was taken so if it's reporting near the limit, in reality you may be well over/under by the time you're touching down.

 

[z987k]

ditch the flaps and go faster.

 

[C650CPT]

ditch the flaps and go faster.

The term Maximum is misleading here ... the manufacturer is required to certify to a MINIMUM X-Wind component based on the wing design/stall speed. Considering this why would the manufacturer go any higher and expose themselves to an increased risk of liability. The demonstration is based on Full Flap setting. It is technique to do a limited flap setting and carry higher approach speeds to compensate for strong X-Wind.

Jim

 

[fholbert]

Regardless of the numbers, at some point you'll run out of rudder in the xwind correction. The reported wind is just what it was when the measurement was taken so if it's reporting near the limit, in reality you may be well over/under by the time you're touching down.

One of my favorite quotes from a guy I had the pleasure of flying with in 1978.

<whiskey voice> "Son, In this airplane you'll run out of guts long before you run out of rudder."

Since the guy lived in the Texas Panhandle I believed he knew what he was talking about.

 

[MidlifeFlyer]

I always thought that the MD(x-wind)C was set by the test pilots designing the aircraft and that it was recommended that you not exceed it.

In theory it's the biggest crosswind that the test pilots found while testing. Considering what test pilots do with airplanes to test their limitations, I never bought that.

What you read about it really being intended for the average pilot is probably correct and my own personal opinion is that the number is selected as a compromise between performance and safety concerns: "Look at what our airplane is capable of" balanced by "We really don't want pilots to hurt themselves in out airplane."

 

[tgrayson]

In theory it's the biggest crosswind that the test pilots found while testing. Considering what test pilots do with airplanes to test their limitations, I never bought that.

I agree. I find it too interesting of a coincidence that test pilots of heavier airplanes just happen to encounter days where the winds are faster than those testing lighter aircraft. I think the company has an idea of what number needs to be there in order to be competitive with similar aircraft without encouraging pilots to take risks they don't have the skills for.

 

[mooneyguy]

I just read some new info on the max demo xwind component the other day, and it said that the one found in the POH/AFM/PIM (for all you anal retentive people out there, me included) is set based on what an AVERAGE pilot can handle, and it continued to infer that it could easily be exceeded by an experienced pilot, and often is.

I always thought that the MD(x-wind)C was set by the test pilots designing the aircraft and that it was recommended that you not exceed it.

Funny story, I once landed a C152 (max demo xwind component is 12 kt) in a 14kt direct crosswind that was gusting to 19. Needless to say, it wasn't intentional and my approach and landing must have looked like this: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OtnL4KYVtDE

Off topic, but that avatar made me laugh, that's pretty good!:rotfl: