What is the maximum tail wind allowable on the LZ to accept aircraft before having to issue an advisory?

• A. 9 knots
• B. 3 knots
• C. 7 knots
• D. 5 knots

Answer: (D)

Tailwind on the approach and hover affects how controllable the helicopter will be as it settles onto the LZ, and it can increase load sway and drift during the final phase. To keep LZ operations predictable and safe, standard procedures set a practical limit for tailwind that allows acceptance without needing to alert the pilot with an advisory. If the tailwind is at or below that limit, you can accept the aircraft without extra instructions. If it’s above, you must issue an advisory to inform the pilot that tailwind conditions exceed the recommended value and to consider using a different LZ or postponing. The defined limit in this case is five knots, making that the maximum tailwind allowable for acceptance without an advisory. Limiting the tailwind to this level balances safe hover/control margins with operational practicality; a smaller limit would unnecessarily restrict operations, while higher limits would increase risk and typically require advisory.