How this calculator works
Ground velocity equals air velocity plus wind velocity. Bearings are measured clockwise from true north; wind direction specifies where the wind comes from. In course mode the heading correction cancels crosswind, then the remaining along-course component gives ground speed. Heading mode allows the course to drift. Airspeed and wind inverse modes use measured vectors instead of a crosswind-only estimate. The model holds speeds and bearings constant.
Formula
V_ground = V_air + V_wind; sin(WCA) = W sin(wind_from-course)/TAS; GS = TAS cos(WCA)-W cos(wind_from-course).
Worked example
At 100 m/s true airspeed, a 20 m/s headwind gives 80 m/s ground speed. A 60 m/s crosswind also leaves 80 m/s along the chosen course, but requires a 36.869898 degree heading correction.
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Frequently asked questions
Is the wind bearing where wind is going?
No. Enter the direction it comes from. The wind velocity points 180 degrees away.
Can I mix magnetic and true bearings?
Convert all bearings to the same north reference before calculating.
What if crosswind is stronger than airspeed?
The chosen course cannot be maintained. The calculator reports an inline error.