A study of light airplane pilot landing performance

Abstract

The results of a total of 289 landings performed with a low-wing aircraft by a group of private pilots on long and short runways have been analyzed to determine the landing performance of these pilots. Both the long- and short-runway landings show significant variation from straight or uniformly curved trajectories, denoting considerable 'jockeying' on the part of the pilot during approach. The long-runway approach speeds were variable and higher than recommended. Considerable float followed by touchdown at speeds well above stall were noted. The short-runway landings were quite similar, except that approach speeds were slightly lower as a result of the use of two-thirds to full flaps, and touchdown occurred closer to the threshold.