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PilotSchool Knowledge Base

Factors Affecting Take-off and Landing Performance

In understanding aircraft performance, particularly during take-off, landing, and the initial climb, several critical factors must be considered. This section examines the impact of wet runway surfaces, runway slope, and slushy runway surfaces on an aircraft’s operational performance.

Wet Runway Surface

Take-Off Performance

  • Braking Action and Friction: On wet runways, friction is reduced, decreasing braking force and potentially leading to hydroplaning, which can hinder acceleration and transition to climb. FSF ALAR Briefing Note 8.5 - SKYbrary
  • Performance Planning: Pilots must account for potential discrepancies in performance data and plan accordingly, considering greater take-off distances. NBAA

Landing Performance

  • Increased Landing Distances: Wet surfaces require 1.3 to 1.4 times the normal landing distance. Reduced friction complicates directional control, necessitating the use of rudder pedals and differential braking. Boldmethod

Take-Off Climb Performance

  • While not directly addressed, the transition from takeoff roll to climb may be affected by reduced ground friction and potential hydroplaning.

Runway Slope

Take-Off Performance

  • Uphill Takeoff: Increases takeoff roll due to gravitational resistance.
  • Downhill Takeoff: Reduces takeoff distance as gravity aids acceleration. Principal Air Boldmethod

Landing Performance

  • Uphill Landing: Shortens landing roll due to increased deceleration.
  • Downhill Landing: Increases landing roll needing careful management to safely stop. Principal Air

Take-Off Climb Performance

  • Runway slope impacts the transition from ground roll to climb, influencing the required power adjustments.

Slushy Runway Surface

Take-Off Performance

  • Increased Rolling Resistance: Slush increases rolling resistance, leading to longer take-off distances and reduced acceleration. Horne & Joyner
  • Risk of Hydroplaning: Presence of slush can increase the risk, potentially impacting control during take-off.

Landing Performance

  • Reduced Braking Efficiency: Slushy conditions may necessitate landing distances 2.0 to 2.3 times longer. Boldmethod
  • Directional control may be suboptimal due to reduced friction.

Take-Off Climb Performance

  • Engine Efficiency: Potential slush ingestion may reduce engine performance.
  • Weight Increase: Slush adherence raises weight and drag, impacting climb capability. Horne & Joyner

Conclusion

The conditions of the runway surface, such as wetness, slope, and slush, have profound impacts on aircraft performance during critical phases of operation. Understanding these effects and effectively planning for the conditions can enhance safety and operational efficiency. Regular consultation of performance charts and adherence to recommended safety margins are crucial.