Windsock

Windsock is a conical textile tube mounted on a mast at airports, indicating the current wind direction and providing a rough indication of wind speed. The windsock points in the direction the wind is blowing toward (downwind), so the open end faces into the wind.

Speed indications:

• Fully extended and horizontal: approximately 15 knots or more
• Drooping at 45 degrees: approximately 7-8 knots
• Hanging limp: calm wind

Windsocks are particularly useful at non-towered airports and for helicopter operations. They are typically orange or orange-and-white striped for visibility.