Crab Angle Calculator

Compute the heading offset into a direct crosswind needed to hold a course.

Description

Compute the heading offset into a direct crosswind needed to hold a course.

Crab Angle Calculator: Compute the heading offset into a direct crosswind needed to hold a course.

When to use Crab Angle

Use this calculator for flight-planning study or a first-pass cross-check when all inputs describe the same aircraft, atmospheric condition, and phase of flight.

Crosswind (kt)
Crosswind component magnitude at ninety degrees to the course.
TAS (kt)
True airspeed.

How Crab Angle works

Compute the heading offset into a direct crosswind needed to hold a course. The tool evaluates the supplied inputs together and returns the named outputs below; it does not infer omitted operating conditions or change the units shown.1

Crab angle (°)
Crab angle into the wind.

Limitations and assumptions

  • Do not use a generic calculator in place of the current aircraft flight manual, approved performance data, operating limitations, NOTAMs, weather, or regulations. Real performance changes with configuration, runway condition, altitude, temperature, wind, loading, and technique.
  • Use finite inputs in the displayed units and preserve more precision than the final presentation requires. Independently verify safety-critical, financial, compliance, or production decisions.

Alternative or Complementary approaches

Cross-check the result against the aircraft flight manual or approved planning system, then apply the required safety margins. Keep signed wind, heading, altitude, speed, and fuel conventions explicit.

References

  1. Wind triangle — Wikipedia contributors

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