Wind Cone – Windsock

A wind cone/windsock is a tool used to determine the direction and speed of the surface wind. When it is filled with air, it becomes parallel to the ground. It is placed on a mechanism that rotates in the direction of the wind. They are made from fabric or fabric-like materials. It usually has a wide mouth that meets the wind and a narrow outlet that releases the wind. They are used in many places such as chemical plants and highways where wind direction and intensity are important, especially in airports. In addition, there are wind cones that are used for traditional reasons or as a child’s toy.

Wind cones/socks are usually produced in orange, red, orange-white, or red-white stripes for easy recognition. They should be hung in an open area and on a high pole so that the wind is not affected by environmental factors.

In aviation, the “surface wind” is wind up to 30 ft (10 m) above the ground. Each airport must have at least one windsock.

According to ICAO standards, aerodrome wind socks should be 3.6 m (12 ft) long and a wide mouth 0.9 m (36 in) in diameter. Its narrow and open rear end should be wide enough to allow it to be fully perpendicular (fully parallel to the ground) in 15 knots (28 km / h) wind. The pole on which it is suspended must be 6 m (20 ft) high. According to the FAA, the windsock should be able to turn into the wind at a wind of at least 3 knots (5.6 km / h).

The aerodrome wind socks can be illuminated with internal or external lamps so that they can be used in night conditions.

According to ICAO/FAA Airport Certification Workshop – INSPECTING TRAFFIC AND WIND INDICATORS

Recommended: What Is the Low-Level Wind Shear Alert System (LLWAS)?

WIND CONE SPECIFICATIONS

Supplemental wind indicators should

• Be located 500′ – 1500′ from the runway end 
• Be on the left side of landing aircraft unless special circumstances exist 
• Be no closer than 250′ from the runway CL
• Preferred location is 1000′ from the end and 250′ left of CL

Are Windsocks Still Necessary?

Yes. Although modern aerodromes use advanced weather sensors and automated reporting systems, windsocks remain an important safety feature. They provide pilots with an immediate visual indication of wind direction and approximate wind speed, helping them confirm reported weather conditions during takeoff and landing. Windsocks also serve as a reliable backup if electronic systems fail and are especially useful at smaller or uncontrolled aerodromes. For these reasons, they continue to be required at many airports under international aviation standards and remain an essential part of safe flight operations.

References and Further Reading:

• https://www.hollandaviation.nl/en/windsock-everything-you-need-to-know-about-windsocks/
• https://skybrary.aero/articles/windsock

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