Which term describes wind that increases the aircraft's ground speed?

• A. Tail Wind
• B. Head Wind
• C. Round Trip
• D. Cross Wind

Answer: (A)

Wind components and ground speed: ground speed is how fast you move over the ground, which is airspeed adjusted by the wind component along your flight path. A tailwind comes from behind you and adds to your motion, so your ground speed increases. For example, with an airspeed of 200 knots and a tailwind of 20 knots, your ground speed is about 220 knots, meaning you cover more distance each hour and your trip time decreases. A headwind does the opposite, slowing you down and increasing travel time. A crosswind blows from the side and mainly affects your track and heading corrections rather than increasing your speed along the course. So the term that describes wind that increases the aircraft’s ground speed is tailwind.