Total landing distance

Definition

Total landing distance is the complete distance an aircraft travels from the point where it touches down on the runway to the point where it comes to a full stop. This measurement is crucial for understanding an aircraft's landing performance, as it encompasses factors such as aircraft speed, weight, environmental conditions, and runway characteristics, which can all influence how quickly a plane can decelerate and safely stop after landing.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Total landing distance can vary significantly based on factors such as aircraft type, weight at landing, and weather conditions like wind and rain.
2. Pilots use total landing distance calculations to ensure that they have enough runway length available for a safe landing, especially at shorter airfields.
3. Aircraft performance charts provide essential data for calculating total landing distance, allowing pilots to adjust their approach based on current conditions.
4. A longer total landing distance might require a go-around if the runway is occupied or if other hazards are present upon touchdown.
5. Friction coefficients of the runway surface play a key role in determining total landing distance, as slick or wet surfaces can significantly increase stopping distances.

Review Questions

• How do various factors like aircraft weight and environmental conditions affect total landing distance?
  • Total landing distance is influenced by multiple factors including the weight of the aircraft at the time of landing, as heavier aircraft require more distance to come to a stop. Environmental conditions such as wind speed and direction can also impact this distance; for example, a headwind can help reduce total landing distance while a tailwind can increase it. Additionally, weather conditions like rain or ice can decrease friction between the tires and runway surface, leading to longer stopping distances.
• Discuss the importance of calculating total landing distance before landing at an airport with a short runway.
  • Calculating total landing distance is critical when approaching airports with short runways because it helps pilots determine if they can safely land given the available space. If the total landing distance exceeds the length of the runway, there is a significant risk of overrunning and encountering dangerous situations. This calculation allows pilots to make informed decisions about their approach speed and configuration during landing to ensure safety.
• Evaluate how runway surface conditions impact the safety and efficiency of landings concerning total landing distance.
  • Runway surface conditions play a vital role in both the safety and efficiency of landings as they directly affect total landing distance. A dry and well-maintained runway provides optimal friction for deceleration, resulting in shorter stopping distances. Conversely, wet or icy surfaces reduce friction, leading to longer total landing distances and increasing the risk of accidents. Pilots must constantly assess these conditions and adjust their approach accordingly to mitigate risks associated with increased stopping distances on compromised surfaces.

Related terms

runway length: The total length of a runway available for takeoff and landing, which directly affects the aircraft's ability to stop safely.

landing roll: The distance covered by an aircraft during the deceleration phase immediately after touchdown until it comes to a complete stop.

approach speed: The speed at which an aircraft descends toward the runway for landing, which impacts total landing distance due to its influence on energy absorption during touchdown.