What is the maximum altitude at which predictive wind shear alert systems can warn flight crews?

Predictive wind shear alert systems are designed to help flight crews detect wind shear conditions before they become hazardous, allowing them to take necessary precautions or avoid the situation altogether. These systems analyze incoming data related to wind, providing alerts that are crucial in preventing accidents due to sudden changes in wind speed or direction, especially during critical phases of flight like takeoff and landing.

The maximum altitude at which these systems can issue warnings is 1200 feet above ground level (AGL). This altitude is significant because it allows flight crews to have sufficient time and altitude to respond to alerts and implement corrective actions before reaching the ground. Depending on the aircraft's speed and climb rate, being alerted at this height gives crews the opportunity to follow proper procedures, whether that involves a go-around on approach or a change in takeoff trajectory.

While some options suggest lower altitudes such as 800, 1000, or 1500 feet, the standard for predictive wind shear alerts is set at 1200 feet AGL, which balances safety and operational practicality, ensuring that crews are well-informed without compromising their decision-making processes during critical flight phases.