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Old June 30th, 2009, 16:26   #6
OldTownPilot
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Default Re: ATIS Winds - True or Magnetic?

Quote:
Originally Posted by dc3flyer View Post
In most places I don't think it really matters THAT much. Winds are also given 10's of degrees (such as 180 or 190) instead of actual degress (such as 183 or 187). So are a few degrees going to matter? Not to mention the winds change a little more often than the reports.

In the lower 48, what is the maximum difference, 18 degrees?
Its magnetic.

Maine is just under 19 west, and NW Washington is just under 19 east. The difference between the METARs and the ATIS' here is 20 degrees.

In the corners of the country its something that you have to concern yourself with, especially in XC planning. The difference between a 30 and a 50 degree crosswind can be substantial too, especially for a low time private pilot.
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