Upon landing, aircraft, depending on their type and payload, touch down on runways at speeds ranging from 250 to 300 kilometers per hour. While traditional disc brake systems play a crucial role in the deceleration process, their efficiency diminishes as they heat up due to friction.
To address this limitation, a combination of supplementary deceleration mechanisms is implemented to ensure effective and safe aircraft deceleration.
Reverse Thrust: Ordinarily designed for propelling the aircraft forward, the engines possess the capability to contribute to deceleration. The activation of reverse thrust enables the aircraft's engines to redirect airflow, creating a force that assists in slowing down the aircraft
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Air Brakes or Speed Brakes: The implementation of air brakes serves as a pivotal component in the deceleration process. Operating on the principle of drag, these brakes are activated by the pilot upon touchdown. By deploying spoilers, the drag force acting against the aircraft's motion increases, aiding in the gradual reduction of speed.
Drogue Parachute: In scenarios where landing distances are constrained or during specific testing phases, commercial aircraft may deploy a drogue parachute. This supplementary deceleration method involves the controlled release of a parachute, effectively reducing the aircraft's speed upon landing. This approach proves particularly valuable in optimizing landing safety and performance.
Conclusion: The deceleration of aircraft post-landing is a meticulously orchestrated process, incorporating a combination of braking systems and supplementary mechanisms. By synergistically leveraging air brakes, reverse thrust, and drogue parachutes, aviation professionals ensure the safe and efficient deceleration of aircraft, ultimately contributing to enhanced operational safety and performance.