Definition
Sudden, brief increases in wind speed above the prevailing average wind, typically lasting seconds and varying in both speed and direction. Gusts are reported when the peak wind speed exceeds the average wind by at least 10 knots.
Plain English
Short, sharp jumps in wind strength on top of the steady wind. The wind isn't smooth -- it surges and eases, sometimes from slightly different directions, in quick bursts.
Context Anchor
Encountered in weather reports, pilot reports, and landing discussions, especially when planning an approach in turbulent air.
Derivation
Gust' comes from the Old Norse 'gustr,' meaning a sudden blast of wind. The original sense -- a quick, forceful burst -- is exactly the aviation meaning.
Why Pilots Care
Uncorrected gusts can produce sudden airspeed or altitude changes on final, increasing the chance of a hard landing or loss of directional control.
Grounding Statement
On final approach, a gust may briefly push harder on the airplane, then fade before the pilot has fully settled from the first change.
Intuition Check
Wind gusts do not mean the wind is simply strong all the time. They mean the wind is varying, with short bursts above the steadier wind.
Example Sentence 1
The ATIS reported wind 240 at 15 knots, gusting to 25, so the pilot added 5 knots to the approach speed.
Example Sentence 2
A gust lifted the left wing just as the main wheels touched, requiring immediate aileron correction to stay on centerline.