One simplified way would be to say you want to spend less time in the
headwind. Oversimplified, but it might at least get him to consider it.

Might use some simple math with convenient figures to prove it to him.

Best glide isn't in the books because it varies with weight and, as you can
see, wind conditions.

If you can't get it through to him, take the previous posters advice...run.

mike



"Nik" wrote in message
ups.com...
Ok, my instructor did a simulated engine failure in the pattern; winds
were around 20kts in the air and 13kts on the ground. Did everything
perfectly; however after we took off again, he told me to maintain 65
kts next time, and I totally disagreed.
The manual says 65 kts for best glide speed; however that is in calm
air. As a glider person, I know adding about 1/2 the headwind component
will give the greatest distance.
After the flight I pulled up the Glider Flying handbook online and it
says:

"...it is apparent that flying a faster airspeed as the headwind
increases will result in the greatest distance over the
ground. If this is done for the polar curves from many
gliders, a general rule of thumb is found, namely, add
half the headwind component to the best L/D for the
maximum distance."

But even after telling him that he said that doesn't apply to power
planes, also saying that manuals never give best glide, and there has
to be a reason for that.

Do you guys have any ideas on how I can really convince him? Any good
sources?

Thanks!
-Nik