Is it permissible to depart or land with a missing wind report?

• A. Neither departure nor landing allowed with a missing wind report
• B. Departure allowed with missing wind report but landing not
• C. Landing allowed with missing wind report but departure not
• D. Both departure and landing allowed with a missing wind report if the flight is VFR

Answer: (A)

Wind information is essential for safe takeoff and landing because it tells you how the air is moving relative to the runway, which affects the crosswind component, any tailwind, and the runway choice itself. Without a wind report, you don’t have the critical data needed to determine performance requirements and to coordinate with air traffic control for an appropriate approach and clearance. Therefore, procedures require that neither departure nor landing be conducted until a wind report is available, even if other weather conditions appear favorable.