NavigationQuestion 841 of 934

A pilot diverts to an alternate airport. Which winds should the pilot use to work out the heading and groundspeed?

  1. The winds at the departure airport
  2. The winds at the destination airport
  3. The surface winds at the alternate airport on arrival
  4. The winds aloft nearest the diversion point
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Correct answer: The winds aloft nearest the diversion point

After turning to the new course, the pilot notes the time and uses the nearest winds aloft.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 16: Navigation — Lost Procedures, page 422

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026