Lister
It is not just the suface wind gusts which are relevant it is also the approach wind gusts which have to be taken into consideration.
On your approach where the winds may be higher keep an eye on the IAS and the + AND - on your ref speed.
It maybe on the approach that you need to keep a much higher speed reducing towards the threshold as the winds reduce.
To fly down an approach at 1.3 times your stall speed plus half your gust speed maybe asking for trouble. On gusty days with windshear dont presume you are safe at 3 miles out using those figures.
As for landing distance remember its your touchdown speed which is relevant so whether the wind is down the runway or 90 degrees across is an important factor.
In those conditions also dont hold off but get used to putting it down on landing.
I am not a taildragger pilot so the actual touchdown in those conditions maybe better advised by an experienced taildragger pilot.
Pace
Last edited by Pace; 2nd Sep 2009 at 16:49.