Originally Posted by
Whopity
Why would you want to reduce the flap in a crosswind? You want to minimise the time the aircraft is floating above the runway. If the wind is gusting yes, but not in a steady wind.
One of the limiting factors in crosswind landings is rudder authority. One way of increasing rudder authority is to land at a faster airspeed. The reason for landing with less flap is to land at a faster airspeed, thereby increasing rudder authority and keeping it straight until you can get the nosewheel down. Obviously you will need more runway when using less flap.