Wind blowing directly against the course of an aircraft. (opposite direction)

• A. Head Wind
• B. Tail Wind
• C. Forward (FWD)
• D. Jumpseat

Answer: (A)

A wind blowing directly against the aircraft’s course is a headwind. It comes from the front, opposite the direction you’re flying. In this situation the airplane’s speed through the air (airspeed) increases while its speed over the ground decreases. That extra airspeed helps generate lift, which can shorten takeoff run and improve control on landing, though it also means you cover less ground during the flight for the same engine power. The other terms don’t fit this scenario: a tailwind comes from behind, pushing the aircraft along; forward isn’t a standard wind term; and jumpseat is simply a seat position, not a wind component.