Kyle Boatright wrote:
"Jim Burns" wrote in message
...
"Kyle Boatright"
What is your threshold for landing (or departing) downwind?
Runway length.
Jim

Controllability doesn't enter into equation? It does for me.

With a 10 knot headwind, I have lots of rudder authority at 10 or 20 knots
of groundspeed on roll-out. With a 10 knot tailwind, there is no rudder
authority at 10 knots of groundspeed.

There is always the consideration of an engine failure. On takeoff or
landing, I'd prefer to be pointed into the wind if the prop stops, rather
than having to land downwind or attempt a low altitude turn into the wind...

It would depend on what aircraft type you fly. With Cessna's and
Piper's, there is no need for rudder authority below 30 knots or even
higher. I've never flown an airplane with a free castering nose wheel,
but I suspect rudder authority is more important there, however, it
still seems like the brakes would work fine for directional control at
10 knots.

Matt