Why higher elevation will result in the need for a longer runway for take off?


Why higher elevation will result in the need for a longer runway for take off? The “thin air” at high elevations results in less lift on the aircraft. This means the aircraft has to travel faster to take off and therefore needs a longer runway to do so.


What affects takeoff performance?

Aircraft weight Foremost, a heavier aircraft has more inertia. This requires more acceleration. To accelerate, more runway is required, and this increases the takeoff distance. A heavier aircraft also puts in more load on the ground, and this increases the wheel drag which in turn increases friction.


What reduces takeoff distance?

The takeoff distance and speed at which the aircraft can safely fly can be significantly reduced by using flaps and other high lift devices such as slats, an optimum flap/slat setting being configured to minimize the takeoff distance and maximize the initial rate of climb.


What plane can take off with a shortest runway?

Most general aviation aircraft retain this short-field performance; the Cessna 172, the most produced aircraft in history, will take off in as little as 805 feet (245 m) at Standard Temperature when fully loaded.


What plane needs the longest runway to take off?

The Boeing 747 is considered to have the longest takeoff distance of the more common aircraft types and has set the standard for runway lengths of larger international airports. At sea level, 3,200 m (10,500 ft) can be considered an adequate length to land virtually any aircraft.