Perceived Importance of the Visual Cues to the Timing of the Landing Flare

Abstract

One of the first obstacles that confront student pilots is the landing flare. Of special concern is the initial decrease in rate of descent, also known as the leveloff. The ability to time this maneuver is crucial to a smooth and safe landing, but poorly understood. Ninety-two aviators in two Part 141 flight schools completed a perception questionnaire in the attempt to further explore the role of visual cues in timing the landing flare. Findings suggest that pilots find it difficult to articulate or identify these visual cues. These findings highlight the shortcomings of current landing instruction and emphasize the need to transition from verbal to nonverbal instruction.

Author

• Benbassat, Danny Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University