What is Flare in Aviation?
Flare is a critical phase of flight that requires precise technique and coordination to ensure a safe and controlled landing. In this article, we will delve into the definition, significance, and procedures involved in flaring.
Definition of Flare
A flare is the final stage of descent, where the pilot reduces power and gently descends towards the runway, aiming to touch down smoothly and controlledly. Flaring is a technique used to reduce the aircraft’s descent rate, airspeed, and sink rate, preparing the plane for touchdown. The purpose of flaring is to ensure a soft and consistent landing, while also allowing the pilot to maintain control of the aircraft during the final stages of landing.
Significance of Flare
A proper flare is crucial for several reasons:
- Safety: A well-executed flare helps to reduce the risk of overrunning the runway or experiencing a bounced landing, which can be catastrophic.
- Efficiency: A smooth flare can save fuel and reduce wear and tear on the aircraft, as it eliminates the need for hard braking or intense control inputs.
- Consistency: A consistent flare allows the pilot to maintain a stable approach, ensuring a consistent touchdown and reducing the risk of upset or loss of control.
Procedures for Flaring
The flare procedure involves a series of steps, which are outlined below:
Contents
Preparation
Before initiating the flare, pilots must:
• Plan the approach: Ensure the aircraft is configured for landing, with flaps and gear extended, and power set to the recommended value.
• Monitor altitude and airspeed: Verify the aircraft is at the correct altitude and airspeed for the approach.
• Identify the landing threshold: Confirm the landing threshold is visible and aligned with the aircraft’s track.
Initiating the Flare
Once prepared, the pilot will:
• Reduce power: Gradually reduce the throttle setting to reduce airspeed and descent rate.
• Aim for the threshold: Align the aircraft with the landing threshold, ensuring it is properly aligned with the runway centerline.
• Gradually reduce sink rate: Allow the aircraft to gently descend, gradually reducing its sink rate as it approaches the runway.
Flare Height and Rate
The pilot must consider the following during the flare:
• Flare height: Typically, the flare begins around 50-100 feet (15-30 meters) above the runway.
• Flare rate: Aim for a gentle descent rate of 0-10 feet per second (0-3 meters per second).
Touchdown and Rollout
Once the aircraft has touched down, the pilot will:
• Control the roll: Gradually apply gentle braking to maintain control of the aircraft, while monitoring the runway rollout.
• Monitor airspeed and sink rate: Verify the aircraft is decelerating smoothly and within the normal range.
Common Errors and Solutions
Common errors during the flare phase include:
• Too late or too early: Improper timing of the flare can result in a bounced or hard landing.
• Incorrect sink rate: Failing to reduce sink rate can cause the aircraft to touch down too abruptly.
To overcome these errors, pilots can:
• Practice regular approaches: Regular practice will help pilots develop muscle memory and improve their flare technique.
• Monitor instrumentation: Utilize flight instruments, such as the altimeter and airspeed indicator, to verify the aircraft’s descent rate and airspeed.
• Adjust flare height and rate: Based on feedback from the flight instruments, adjust the flare height and rate to ensure a smooth touchdown.
Conclusion
In conclusion, flaring is a critical phase of flight that requires precision and coordination to ensure a safe and controlled landing. By understanding the significance, procedures, and common errors involved in flaring, pilots can improve their technique and reduce the risk of accidents. Remember, a proper flare is key to a smooth and efficient landing.
