What is the maximum tailwind component?

• A. 15 kts
• B. 20 kts
• C. 10 kts
• D. 5 kts

Answer: (C)

A tailwind component is the part of the wind that blows along the runway in the same direction the aircraft is moving. It increases the aircraft’s ground speed during landing, which means more runway is needed to slow down and stop safely. For landing operations, keeping this tailwind component within a limit helps ensure enough braking margin and reduces the risk of overruns.

The maximum tailwind component typically allowed is ten knots. This limit provides a safe balance between operational feasibility and performance margins. Some procedures may permit higher tailwinds for takeoff, but for standard landing ops the ten-knot cap is the common rule. Hence, the correct maximum tailwind component is ten knots.