In which direction do aircraft take off and land according to general aviation practice?

Aircraft take off and land against the wind as a standard practice in general aviation. This technique is primarily employed to enhance aircraft performance during these critical phases of flight. Taking off into the wind increases the relative airflow over the wings, which can enhance lift, allowing the aircraft to become airborne more quickly and with a shorter takeoff roll.

Similarly, when landing, approaching the runway into the wind reduces the ground speed of the aircraft, providing better control and a safer landing procedure. This practice minimizes the distance required to land and helps stabilize the aircraft as it descends, particularly in challenging weather conditions. By flying into the wind, pilots can maintain more effective control of the aircraft during these crucial moments.

The other options do not align with standard aviation practices. Taking off with the wind would adversely impact lift and require longer distances for takeoff. Approaching the runway perpendicular to the wind could lead to lateral drift and instability during landing. A random directional approach would compromise the safety and efficiency that the established practices strive to maintain.