True or False: A fixed-wing sUAS should be launched away from the wind.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Cannot be determined
• D. Depends on wind direction

Answer: (B)

Wind direction affects takeoff performance because lift depends on airspeed relative to the air, not the ground. Launching into the wind gives you a headwind, which increases airspeed for a given ground speed, letting the aircraft reach the necessary lift more quickly and with better control. This shortens the takeoff distance and improves stability just after liftoff. Launching away from the wind would mean a tailwind, which raises ground speed for the same airspeed, lengthening the takeoff run and making control harder. So the statement is false—you should launch into the wind.