What is always given when authorizing use of a runway and a tailwind component exists?

• A. Wind direction and velocity
• B. Wind shear alert
• C. Noise-sensitive area
• D. Preferred runway

Answer: (A)

Wind information is what pilots need to plan takeoff and landing, especially when a tailwind is present. When you authorize use of a runway and a tailwind component exists, you always provide wind direction and velocity. The direction tells the pilot where the air is coming from, and the speed shows how strong it is. This lets the pilot assess the wind’s effect on the runway—whether it creates a headwind, tailwind, or crosswind—and how that impacts takeoff or landing performance, required runway length, and braking. The tailwind component is derived from this wind direction and speed, so giving the direction and velocity first is essential. Other items like wind shear alerts, noise-sensitive areas, or a preferred runway may be relevant in other contexts, but they aren’t the mandatory wind information that must accompany a runway clearance.