Which parameters are included in the body of the METAR wind element?

The correct answer includes both direction and speed as parameters in the METAR wind element. In a METAR report, wind information is crucial for aviation as it provides pilots with essential data regarding the wind's behavior at the reporting station.

The direction is reported in degrees, indicating where the wind is coming from (with a reference to true north), while speed is typically given in knots. This information is vital for takeoff and landing operations, as wind can significantly impact aircraft performance and handling.

Although gusts can also be a factor in wind reporting, they are not part of the primary wind element in the METAR body; instead, they are reported separately when present, usually in a format that indicates the peak gust speed alongside the wind's steady state. Therefore, being aware of both direction and speed is essential for pilots to plan their operations effectively based on current weather conditions.