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Definition: The flare-out is a crucial phase in the landing process of an airplane, occurring just before touchdown. It involves transitioning the aircraft from a descending attitude to a nearly level or slightly nose-up position, preparing for a smooth landing.
Key Aspects of the Flare-Out Phase
- Transition from Descent:
- Purpose: The primary goal of the flare-out is to reduce the aircraft’s descent rate and establish a proper landing attitude to achieve a smooth touchdown.
- Execution: As the aircraft approaches the runway, the pilot begins to gradually raise the nose of the aircraft, reducing the rate of descent and preparing for the final contact with the runway.
- Control Inputs:
- Pitch Adjustment: The pilot adjusts the aircraft’s pitch attitude, typically by pulling back on the control stick or yoke, to bring the nose up. This reduces the descent rate and prepares for the landing.
- Throttle Management: In many cases, the throttle is reduced to idle or near-idle power settings during the flare-out to prevent excessive speed and ensure a smooth landing.
- Altitude Awareness:
- Altitude Check: Pilots use visual cues and instruments, including the radio-altimeter in advanced systems, to monitor the altitude and make precise adjustments during the flare-out.
- Timing: The timing of the flare-out is critical. Too early or too late an initiation can result in a hard landing or a ballooning effect where the aircraft climbs slightly before descending again.
- Landing Gear and Configuration:
- Gear Deployment: Prior to the flare-out, the landing gear is fully deployed, and the aircraft’s configuration is adjusted for landing, including flaps and slats if applicable.
- Landing Attitude: During the flare-out, the aircraft’s attitude is adjusted to align with the runway and ensure that the main landing gear touches down first.
Importance in Landing
- Smooth Touchdown: The flare-out phase is crucial for achieving a smooth and controlled landing, minimizing the impact and ensuring the aircraft’s landing gear absorbs the touchdown forces properly.
- Pilot Control: It allows pilots to manage the aircraft’s descent rate and speed effectively, improving safety and comfort during landing.
Summary
The flare-out is the phase of landing where the airplane transitions from a descent to a nearly level attitude, preparing for a smooth touchdown. This phase involves careful control inputs to adjust the aircraft’s pitch and descent rate, ensuring a safe and controlled landing. Proper execution of the flare-out is essential for achieving a smooth landing and minimizing the risk of hard landings or runway overruns.
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