What is a relative wind? (FAA‑H‑8083‑25)
The relative wind is the direction of the airflow with respect to the wing. When a wing is moving forward and downward the relative wind moves backward and upward. The flight path and relative wind are always parallel but travel in opposite directions.
In aviation, the relative wind is the airflow which moves opposite to the direction of an aircraft’s flight. It is the “virtual” wind that a pilot feels while flying, regardless of the actual wind direction and speed. The angle at which the wings meet the relative wind, known as the angle of attack, affects the lift and drag forces that keep the plane in the air. Changes in the plane’s attitude, speed, or direction of flight, as well as atmospheric conditions, can alter the direction and intensity of the relative wind. Understanding and controlling the relative wind is fundamental to mastering the theory and practice of aerodynamics, as well as performing safe and efficient flight maneuvers.
More Answers:
Factors Affecting Lift and Drag in Aerodynamic Systems: Impact of Angle of Attack, Airfoil Shape, Air Density, Surface Area, Speed, Viscosity and TurbulenceBernoulli’s Principle: The Science Behind Fluid Behavior and Lift Creation
How The Angle of Attack Affects Lift and Drag – Importance in Aircraft Performance and Safety
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