REAL ATC transmissions

[KenG]

Gotcha! (at least I think I did but I could be wrong) If I'm not mistaking, METAR, TAF and ATIS are not valid outside of 10 NM from the
airfield and no good at 8,543'. Only FAs and Winds Alof tables could be used and those are wide estimates. Another option would be for
you to track a radial and note your IAS and you crab angle to calculate the estimated average winds. But then again, that's not very
practical in a bind.

Now, I agree with you that it would be a job for a 6EB. But can you imagine having to pull out our 6EB or flight calculator every time you
get a speed clearance/restriction to ensure that you're conforming to it? It would be hell; especially in a small aircraft where you're the
only pilot on board... I'm ready to bet that it would cause a few crashes too!

My point was simple: KISS!

Phil,

I thought about the surface versus winds aloft and while my answer was wrong, that is not the only reason. Technically you never gave enough
information to solve the equation. To compute TAS you need CAS and temperature. To calculate Ground Speed you need TAS. With an electronic E6B you
could perform math rather quickly, but at a critical time during flight it would be impractical. If you wanted to know your ground speed in three
seconds you could always ask radar, or invest in a handheld GPS.