FAA Aircraft Dispatcher (ADX)Flight Planning and PerformanceHard
A dispatcher notes a current wind report giving a crosswind component of 28 knots gusting to 35 knots for the runway in use. The aircraft's AFM lists a maximum demonstrated crosswind component of 33 knots. Which statement is correct regarding dispatch of the flight?
- AThe maximum demonstrated crosswind is not an operating limitation; the dispatcher may release the flight, but the pilot in command has final authority to accept or decline the conditions
- BThe maximum demonstrated crosswind is a hard operating limitation, so the flight must divert
- CThe dispatcher must reduce the landing weight to compensate for the crosswind before releasing the flight
- DThe flight cannot be dispatched because the gust value exceeds the demonstrated crosswind
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. The maximum demonstrated crosswind is not an operating limitation; the dispatcher may release the flight, but the pilot in command has final authority to accept or decline the conditions
Maximum demonstrated crosswind component is the highest crosswind value tested during certification, not a regulatory limitation. A flight may still be dispatched with a reported crosswind exceeding this value, but the pilot in command retains final authority to determine whether conditions are safe for takeoff or landing.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Incorrect—it is advisory, not a certificated operating limitation.
- C. Reducing landing weight does not directly address crosswind limitations.
- D. Incorrect—demonstrated crosswind is not a hard limit that automatically prohibits dispatch.
Maximum Demonstrated Crosswind Component
The highest crosswind velocity component demonstrated during aircraft certification testing; it is not an official operating limitation.
- Found in the AFM, but not a certified limitation
- PIC retains authority to accept or decline higher crosswinds
- Dispatchers should advise crews but cannot forbid dispatch solely on this value
Memory trick: 'Demonstrated' means tested, not a wall — PIC makes the final call.