Aviation windsocks may seem a basic and unassuming element of the airport runway however they are an essential health and safety tool for pilots. A windsock offers a quick visible reference to determine wind direction, an indication of windspeed and to identify potential crosswind hazards during landing. The impact that wind factors have may vary depending on the type of aircraft or helicopter.
Large airports
At larger airports and airstrips will usually have more than one windsock as the identification of wind direction is localised to a small area around the actual windsock. Therefore, you will often find one at each end of the runaway for wind direction purposes and one positioned in the middle of the runaway.
In addition to the windsock most large airports have an air traffic control tower fitted with technology to provide accurate weather updates. The combination of the visual windsock and the technology is vital to flight safety.
Small airfields
At small airfield such as private airfields, airstrips, helipads, parachuting and gliding clubs. They often do not have sophisticated weather-based technology so may be totally reliant on their aviation windsocks.
Fully functional
Therefore, it is essential that all elements of your windsock including the mast and fittings are in good working order. At Windsock Company we recommend regular checks of your windsocks especially after long spells of extreme weather. In UK inland locations and climates, the life cycle of a windsock is approximately one year. This will vary depending on the country, area, climate and local environmental conditions. Once you start to notice deterioration it is time to order a replacement. When ordering your next windsock, we suggest you order two so you have one spare. Ready for when you need to replace it and this will save you delivery costs as well.
Compliance to aviation standards
Windsock Company offer windsocks that conform to CAA CAP 168 and ICAO Annex 14 standards. To order your next windsock visit our online shop. Alternatively, if you need a bespoke windsock which is not on our website or advice on what windsock to order. Please get in touch with our team either via email, via our online form or call the office on 01245 230700.
Your windsock team
