More than three decades ago we were involved in a microlight flying club committee. We were given the job of finding a windsock, which proved to be more difficult than you would think. The windsocks available were made of vinyl and were too heavy to be moved by light winds, faded in a couple of weeks, and after only a couple of months in the elements would deteriorate and fall apart.
Mandy van der Molen decided to find out what would go into making perfect windsocks, windsocks of the highest quality, that would last as long as possible. They needed to comply to, or indeed surpass, the high standards recommended internationally by the aviation industry. The highly specialised fabrics used in our windsocks are specially manufactured and dyed to our specifications to give you the very best properties you could wish for in a windsock. Light enough to be moved by the slightest breeze, yet tough enough to endure long exposure to the harshest weather, colour fast, and water repellent.
Several years ago she was joined in the business by her son Justin van der Molen, who designs and produces top quality hardware accessories such as bearings, poles and bases. He also offers installation and solar or electric lighting.
From power stations, to airports, to oil rigs, to sports fields our products are flying proudly, offering critical information about wind speed and direction safely assisting the landing of aircraft and/or the evacuation of populations in the event of chemical spills. We supply most Airports in South Africa. (FAA)
We have satisfied customers internationally from the South Pole to America. We are privileged to be the preferred supplier to the United Nations World Food Program.
Below are our various Windsocks, Bearing Rings & Windsock Hardware Accessories
Aviation Windsock Specifications Air Safety windsocks are made to the highest standards and are weather proof. They are guaranteed to give long-term service due to superior properties of color fastness to weathering and light. These windsocks feature the following:
FAA and ICAO standards for windsock sizes are as follows:
The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) (AC 150/5345-27D) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) (Annex 14) provide three different wind sock height specifications as follows:
Based on Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards, a properly functioning windsock should fully extend at 15 knots (28 km/h; 17 mph) wind. Also, a windsock should orient itself according to the wind direction due to a 3 knot (5.6 km/h; 3.5 mph) wind In general the windsock side seams should be at 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock positions.
Any windsock will perform its best without any wind shear influence from buildings, roof angles, trees, or orographic influences, so it is good to consider placing the windsock at a distance greater than 25 meters from any other standing object. If this is not possible or practical, the height of the support should be raised as much as possible.
The size, shapes, and styles of wind sock vary based on the type of use like airports, marine areas, farm fields, etc. They are calibrated up to 15kts (27k/h) per hour.
Aviation Windsocks
The U. S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) provide three different windsock height specifications as follows:
FAA and ICAO standards for windsock sizes are as follows:
Marine Windsocks:
Conclusion:
When considering the location for a windsock, the differences between a "visual only" location and the "true wind" occurrence is very important. Evacuation lanes and their routes must be taken into consideration in industrial and agricultural areas, as improper placement could lead to an unsafe evacuation of personnel to a safe assembly area.
It is important to consider how the windsock is to be replaced, or untangled should the need arise. A base with a hinged mechanism that allows the windsock to be lowered is recommended.
Installation
Installation of non electric wind sock will vary depending on:
“We liked the windsocks so much we ordered another two. The service was professional and fast and the windsock design is outstanding. We would definitely recommend them.”
We at DDRF have used this windsock for the past two years and it was worked beautifully. No maintenance required, no hassles just gives flawless indication of wind direction and speed. Thanks guys this is truly a remarkably product for aviation. Elegant and reliable.
Hey, this restores my confidence in fellow pilots again! isn't it odd how 99% of people are great, but the 1% are the ones we seem to remember for longer! I found Mandy's windsocks (Flight Safety at Rand) used to last longer than most of the tyre company's ones.
"Working with Mandy from Air Safety was such a delight. I received outstanding service from the get-go. Professional, fast responses when quoting, they have a great product range AND they have stock! I don't recommend organisations too often, but Air Safety are one of those exceptions that get my 100% commendation. Thank you, Mandy."
