What is reverse thrust? Explained by CAPTAIN JOE

Captain Joe・2 minutes read

Reverse thrust, along with braking and aerodynamical braking, is crucial for slowing down an aircraft after landing, with varying levels of thrust output controlled through levers based on runway conditions. Full reverse thrust is necessary for decelerating on wet or snow-covered runways, although there are restrictions in place at certain airports due to noise and engine damage concerns.

Insights

  • Reverse thrust is a vital method for slowing down aircraft after landing, involving the use of reverser doors, hydraulic systems, and thrust control levers.
  • While idle reverse thrust is standard at touchdown, full reverse thrust is essential for wet or snow-covered runways, facing limitations at airports due to noise issues and potential engine damage from loose materials.

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Recent questions

  • How is reverse thrust used in aviation?

    Reverse thrust slows aircraft on the runway after landing.

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Summary

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Aircraft deceleration with reverse thrust technology.

  • Reverse thrust is utilized to slow down an aircraft on the runway after landing, alongside braking and aerodynamical braking with ground spoilers.
  • The process of reverse thrust involves opening reverser doors at touchdown, activating the hydraulic system through levers, and adjusting the levers to control the level of thrust output.
  • Idle reverse thrust is mandatory at touchdown for many aircraft, while full reverse thrust is crucial for decelerating on wet or snow-covered runways, with restrictions in place at certain airports due to noise concerns and potential engine damage from loose gravel.
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