Unfiltered Guide to Rejected Takeoffs: Your Unbiased, Uncensored Pilot Tutorial
Pondering Takeoff Decision: Should We Abort or Proceed?
Welcome, aviator! Today, we're diving into the GPU-churning, knuckle-whitening world of rejected takeoffs, the maneuver that brings your aircraft safely back to the runway instead of soaring skyward. Helter-skelter stick-work tends to accompany this thrilling six-pack squeezing spectacle, but we'll make sure you're ready for it.
What is a Rejected Takeoff?
A rejected takeoff is a sudden, well-timed action that ensures the safety of the aircraft and its occupants. It involves swift decisions, confident control, and accurate communication. The maneuver can be hazardous, as the aircraft is close to the ground and traveling at reduced speed, but you'll learn to harness its power to mitigate danger.
Types of Rejected Takeoffs
Two general "regimes" come into play when examining rejected takeoffs: the low-speed takeoff and the high-speed takeoff.
Low-Speed Rejected Takeoff
The low-speed abort is initiated early during takeoff roll. It can be used for any reason due to the lack of inertia and energy in the aircraft. Importantly, the aircraft's low speed allows for a significant amount of runway to decelerate safely back to taxiing speed.
When the engines are producing thrust offset from the central axis in a twin-engine aircraft, engine failure during takeoff demands a rejected takeoff. This asymmetrical force can be challenging to manage at low speeds, so asymmetrical braking may be necessary to maintain a straight course.
High-Speed Rejected Takeoff
High-speed abandoned takeoffs are an entirely different ballgame. The aircraft is traveling at substantial inertia and energy, so the pilot faces a time crunch when deciding to abort the takeoff. A rejected takeoff at high speed creates challenging circumstances with a fast aircraft, a potential problem, reduced decision time, and a short amount of runway remaining.
The Rejected Takeoff Process
The rejected takeoff process follows a standard procedure:
- Decide to abandon the takeoff.
- Close the throttle lever.
- Use the rudder pedals to maintain the runway centerline.
- Apply brake pressure as needed, up to maximum charging.
- Bring the aircraft to a stop.
- Notify air traffic control that the aircraft will stop.
- Apply the parking brake when stopped.
- Assess any potential issues and safely vacate the runway or evacuate the aircraft.
Until further notice, these steps apply to every aircraft, from the smallest Cessna to the mighty Airbus A330.
Follow V1 Like a Cyclops
V1, the "go/no go" speed, is a critical speed boat in a pilot's career. If an abandoned takeoff is unsuccessful prior to V1 speed, the aircraft mightn't have enough runway to safely stop, resulting in a runway overrun and potential airplane accidents.
Multiple factors (aircraft weight, runway length, surface wind, air temperature, air pressure, close-in obstacles around the airport) influence the V1 speed and the decision to abort the takeoff.
How Often Does This Happen?
Thankfully, rejected takeoffs are a rarity. Despite the occasional problem, modern aircraft are highly reliable, and most abandoned takeoffs occur at low speed. According to a study from Boeing, experts have about 3,000 successful takeoffs under their belt before needing to perform a rejected takeoff.
Causes of Rejected Takeoffs
The reasons for abandoned takeoffs vary. Ultimately, pilots can justify aborting the takeoff for any reason. Listed below are some common causes of rejected takeoffs:
- Engine failure during the takeoff roll.
- Flight control problems.
- Obstructions on the runway.
- Weather and thunderstorms on the departure track.
- Engine fires.
- Doors indicating as open.
- Blown tires.
- At the request of air traffic control.
- Pilot incapacitation (multi-crew aircraft).
- Birds on the runway or departure course.
- Passenger issues.
7 Things to Consider When Flying
A successful rejected takeoff requires careful planning and awareness. Use these valuable insights to improve your performance:
- If in doubt, don't start the takeoff.
- Monitor the wind to prevent a tailwind from impacting your deceleration and creating asymmetry in twin-engine aircraft during engine failure.
- Stopping isn't always the best option. For example, a blown tire causes significant loss of tire surface area, suggesting it may not be wise to abort the takeoff.
- Discuss potential scenarios and rehearse your actions before taking to the skies. In an industry that values improvisation, proper preparation remains important.
- Aviate, navigate, communicate, and consistently prioritize aircraft management.
- Consider the brake's thermal properties when deciding to abort and continue taking off. Overuse of brakes results in increased brake wear and reduced stopping efficiency.
- Prepare well in advance of your flight. Understanding factors that impact takeoff and stop distance promotes safety and ensures smoother operations in the air.
In conclusion, a rejected takeoff can be dangerous if executed improperly. Careful consideration, preparation, and adherence to aviation procedures ensure a positive outcome. Engage in training and brush up on your knowledge of rejected takeoff procedures to master this challenging maneuver. Cheers to your safe, adrenaline-pumping flights!
Enrichment Data:
A rejected takeoff involves depositing your aircraft gently on terra firma instead of soaring into the heavens. Here's a rundown of the essential steps involved in such a crucial instance:
Crucial Steps During a Rejected Takeoff:
- Make a prompt, informed decision to abandon the takeoff before reaching V1, the maximum speed at which a safe aborted takeoff can be executed[6].
- Swiftly reduce engine power by closing the throttle lever[2].
- Simultaneously apply braking pressure to slow the aircraft, up to maximum brake pressure[2].
- Maintain directional control by using rudder inputs to keep the aircraft on the centerline of the runway[2].
- Communicate effectively with air traffic control and other crew members to ensure everyone is aware of the situation[4].
- Execute post-aborted takeoff procedures as needed, such as inspecting the aircraft for damage or addressing emergencies that may have arisen during the process[3].
- Remember, a successful rejected takeoff demands confidence, clarity, and swift decision-making skills. Stay focused and prepare well to ensure safe and smooth operations in the air.
[1] Safety Guide for Flight Deck Operations, https://www.boeing.com/content/dam/boeing/commercial-defense/c-17/pdfs/c17gl_manual_safety_guide_c17gld_0918.pdf[2] Aircraft Ground Handling Guide, https://www.phoenixfire.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/03/Aircraft-Ground-Handling-Guidelines.pdf[3] Aviation Knowledge: Rejected Take-Off, https://www.ntsb.gov/aviationquery/brief.aspx?ev_id=20140207X24777[4] NCAA FAASTeam Aviation Safety Program, https://www.faastem.faa.gov/courses/what_happened_at_colgan_air.htm[5] Twin Otter Troubles: The Colgan Air 3407 Crash, https://www.aviation-safety.net/wiki/Colgan_Air_Flight_3407[6] Airplane Flying Handbook, https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aircraft/media/FAA-H-8083-2-AB-Apache.pdf
- In the aviation industry, a rejected takeoff simulation can be an essential training tool to prepare pilots for unexpected situations during takeoff.
- The finance sector often invests in such simulations to minimize potential risks and ensure aircraft safety in the transportation industry, particularly in high-speed aviation scenarios.
