1. What is Ground Speed?

Ground Speed (GS) is the horizontal speed of an aircraft relative to the ground. It combines the aircraft's airspeed with the wind's effect, representing the actual speed at which the aircraft is moving over the ground.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Ground Speed equation:

Where:

• \( GS \) — Ground speed (knots)
• \( AS \) — Air speed (knots)
• \( \theta \) — Track angle (degrees)
• \( WS \) — Wind speed (knots)
• \( \phi \) — Wind direction (degrees)

Explanation: The equation calculates the component of airspeed in the direction of travel plus the component of wind speed in the direction of travel.

3. Importance of Ground Speed Calculation

Details: Accurate ground speed calculation is crucial for flight planning, fuel estimation, and arrival time calculations in aviation.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter air speed in knots, track angle in degrees (0-360), wind speed in knots, and wind direction in degrees (0-360). All values must be valid.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between air speed and ground speed?
A: Air speed is the aircraft's speed through the air, while ground speed is its speed relative to the ground, affected by wind.

Q2: How does wind affect ground speed?
A: Headwind decreases ground speed, tailwind increases it, while crosswind affects the track but may have less impact on speed.

Q3: What is track angle?
A: The direction the aircraft is moving relative to true north, which may differ from heading due to wind correction.

Q4: What units should I use?
A: This calculator uses knots for speed and degrees for angles. Convert from other units if necessary.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It provides a good estimate but actual conditions may vary due to factors like wind gradient and atmospheric changes.