For the High Hover Practice Single Engine maneuver, what is the minimum relative wind in knots?

• A. 10 knots
• B. 5 knots
• C. 15 knots
• D. 20 knots

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is how ambient wind over the rotor affects stability in a high hover with one engine. Relative wind is the airflow across the rotor disk; in a hover the rotor’s downwash is vertical, so the wind you rely on is the surrounding air. For the High Hover Practice Single Engine maneuver, you need at least ten knots of relative wind. That amount provides enough airflow over the rotor to help stabilize the hover and give you a safe margin for control when simulating an engine-out situation. If the wind were only five knots, the hover becomes noticeably more sensitive to gusts and small inputs, making it harder to hold position safely. Winds higher than ten knots satisfy the minimum but aren’t required by the standard; they may occur in practice, but the guideline sets the minimum to ensure a consistent, safe training condition.