Why is regular calibration of wind sensors important?

• A. To calibrate wind direction only during icing.
• B. To maintain accuracy in wind data used for takeoff/landing decisions and safety.
• C. To adjust radar frequency.
• D. To reduce wear on the sensor fans.

Answer: (B)

Regular calibration ensures wind data reflect real air conditions, which pilots and controllers rely on for safe and efficient operations. Wind sensors can drift over time due to aging, temperature changes, bearing wear, mounting misalignment, or environmental effects. If readings shift, decisions for takeoff and landing—such as handling crosswinds, selecting flap settings, and judging braking and landing distances—can be based on inaccurate information, increasing safety risk. Calibration corrects biases, verifies direction alignment (wind vane to true north), and checks the speed scale so the data reported match a known standard. This keeps wind information reliable for critical takeoff, approach, and safety decisions. It isn’t about icing-only conditions, adjusting radar frequency, or reducing wear on fans.