Wind integration period

[tomkk]

As I'm climbing I can watch the wind vector change as my altitude changes. I would be nice to be able to use that to determine best cruise altitude.

I'm assuming that the displayed wind vector is the result of the integration of aircraft data over a sliding time period.

So, how long do I have to remain in straight and level flight at each altitude before the wind vector catches up and stabilizes on the actual wind vector for that altitude?

 

[dynonsupport]

Winds can be calculated in reasonable climbs and descents. A 1000 FPM climb or descent at 100 knots only causes a 0.5% error in ground speed, which is pretty irrelevant. It gets even better the faster you go. We're calculating constantly and without much averaging, so unless you are trying to understand the wind right after you fly through shear, it will be correct as you change altitudes.

Turns do throw off the calculation, so we don't calculate when you're turning. It takes about 5 seconds for the calculation to be right after that.

 

[tomkk]

That's great, thanks ...