Is it safe to fly in high winds?

Is it safe to fly in high winds? In general, the answer is yes. In addition to the fact that modern aircraft are designed to perform well in very high winds, pilots around the world must be able to demonstrate skill at flying in windy conditions in order to become licensed.



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With reasonable proficiency, most private pilots can handle surface winds of up to about 20 miles per hour. However, the direction makes a lot of difference, and flight instructors find that one of the most difficult lessons to teach is crosswind landings.

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There is no single maximum wind limit as it depends on the direction of wind and phase of flight. A crosswind above about 40mph and tailwind above 10mph can start to cause problems and stop commercial jets taking off and landing.

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Pretty much any airplane can easily fly in 25 mph winds. If that is a direct crosswind that might make landing smaller aircraft more challenging, but airliners, no problems.

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Flights may be canceled due to wind, precipitation, fog or low visibility, lightning, low clouds, or storms. Outside temperature does not always affect flights. Pilots make the final determination as to whether a flight will occur or whether one in progress will be diverted to another airport.

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Call the Airline or Check Its Website Often When you have an upcoming flight, you can typically get information on any potential delays or cancellations by calling the airline often or checking its website.

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What wind mph causes turbulence? Strong surface winds—20 MPH or higher—can cause takeoff to be bumpy, but only for one to two minutes. Check the precipitation percentage.

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Even taking off and landing in heavy rain, snow, and fog is possible for aircraft equipped with adequate instruments and automated control systems for the conditions. However, heavy winds and thunderstorms, which often accompany rain, can keep aircraft grounded and result in airline flight cancellations.

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If there is a tail wind of 10mph from behind, then the aircraft needs to be going 80mph (ie 70mph relative speed for those conditions) to get airborne. Similarly, if you are taking off into a 10mph headwind, then you only need to be going 60mph to fly.

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How to Deal With Turbulence Anxiety
  1. Trust the Flight Crew. ...
  2. Choose the Right Seat. ...
  3. Stay Informed with Turbulence Forecast Tools. ...
  4. Practice Relaxation Techniques. ...
  5. Distract Yourself. ...
  6. Seek Professional Help If Necessary. ...
  7. Understand the Nature of Turbulence.


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Flying into Wellington? Make sure that seatbelt is tightly fastened. Wellington, New Zealand is considered to be the windiest city on the planet. This is good for the local wind turbines and dramatic hair-blowing photoshoots, but not so great for passengers aboard planes landing at Wellington International Airport.

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Aerophobia is an extreme fear of flying. People with aerophobia might feel intense anxiety before or during a flight. This condition can interfere with your ability to travel for work or pleasure. If aerophobia is affecting your quality of life, talk to your healthcare provider.

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