When two runways have weather sensors and one runway is experiencing an outage, what is the recommended method for determining wind data?

• A. Use active end sensors if available
• B. Use the most reliable system available and include a WND DATA ESTMD remark
• C. Use forecasts only
• D. Use wind data from the alternate end

Answer: (B)

When wind data from a runway’s sensors can’t be read due to an outage, the priority is to provide the best real-time information you can while clearly indicating its reliability. The right approach is to use the most reliable system available and mark the data with a WND DATA ESTMD remark. This flag shows that the wind information is estimated because the primary sensor isn’t available, which helps pilots and controllers interpret the data correctly and make safer decisions during approach and landing.

Relying solely on forecasts isn’t as useful for live operations, and simply pulling wind data from the alternate end without noting it as estimated could lead to over- or underestimating current conditions. Using the best available source and documenting that the wind data is estimated preserves accuracy and safety clearance in the cockpit and at the controller desk.