General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) Practice Exam

What is the maximum takeoff and landing crosswind speed on slippery or contaminated runway conditions?

1. 10 Knots

2. 15 Knots

3. 20 Knots

4. 25 Knots

The correct answer is: 15 Knots

The maximum takeoff and landing crosswind speed on slippery or contaminated runway conditions is often set at 15 knots. This limit is based on safety considerations and the understanding of aircraft performance under adverse conditions. Slippery or contaminated runways can significantly reduce available friction, increasing the risk of skidding or loss of control during takeoff and landing. Crosswind components affect an aircraft's ability to maintain directional control, and in slippery conditions, any increase in crosswind speed can exacerbate the challenges faced by pilots during these critical phases of flight. The limit of 15 knots helps ensure that pilots can effectively handle crosswinds while still maintaining aircraft safety, considering the potential difficulties posed by surface conditions that could lead to a longer stopping distance or delayed response during control inputs. While other choices may represent limits under different circumstances, the 15-knot figure is established as a conservative approach, emphasizing the importance of operational safety in compromising conditions. Hence, this limit reflects a widely accepted practice to enhance safety margins during takeoff and landing when runway conditions are less than optimal.