When and Why Pilots Use Flaps During Landing

Most pilots are familiar with the use of flaps for landing, but the decision to deploy flaps during a landing can vary greatly depending on the aircraft type and specific conditions. Flaps play a crucial role in facilitating safer and more controlled landings, but there are instances where pilots might opt for a no-flap landing. Let's explore when and why pilots use flaps, and when they do not.

The Benefits of Flaps During Landing

Flaps are an essential tool in aviation, allowing the aircraft to land at a much lower speed than would be possible otherwise. This capability is particularly valuable as it:

Permits landing on shorter runways: By reducing the required landing speed, flaps enable pilots to use smaller, less equipped airports where longer runways are not available.

Reduces brake heating and wear: Lower landing speeds mean less stress on the brakes, extending the life of critical landing equipment and reducing the risk of brake failure.

The Decision to Use No-Flap Landings

While flaps are beneficial for most landings, there are specific scenarios where pilots might choose to perform a no-flap landing. These decisions are often driven by the aircraft type, runway conditions, weather, and airspace traffic. Some of the primary reasons include:

Wind Conditions

For smaller aircraft, particularly those flying into airports with relatively long runways, no-flap landings can be advantageous in strong wind conditions. The ability to maintain positive control of the aircraft during heavy crosswinds is more critical than achieving the shortest possible landing distance. In such situations, pilots must carefully evaluate the wind conditions and decide whether to use flaps based on the perceived risk to the safety of the aircraft and the crew.

Busy Airports

Larger airports with high traffic volumes may also benefit from no-flap landings. By flying a faster final approach, pilots can help ATC manage the flow of incoming aircraft more effectively, ensuring a safe and organized landing sequence. This approach is especially useful for the final phase of the approach, reducing the likelihood of congestion and improving overall airport efficiency.

Icing Conditions

Landings in icing conditions often require a no-flap approach to maintain the necessary speed and configuration for a safe touchdown. Icing can affect the performance and handling of the aircraft, making it imperative to keep the flaps in a clean position to maintain stability and control. Pilots must carefully assess the icing conditions and the potential risks before deciding whether to use flaps.

Standard Practices and Flap Operation

The standard practice used in countries like the UK is to set the flaps on the base leg just before turning onto final approach. However, operations can vary significantly depending on the aircraft type. Pilots should refer to the specific aircraft's Pilot’s Notes or Operation Manual for instructions on flap settings and operation. Many airliners, for example, drop their flaps in stages during the approach to ensure a gradual and controlled descent, which can reduce the risk of stalls or other issues.

Conclusion

The use of flaps during landing is a critical skill for pilots, and the decision to deploy them or not is based on a variety of factors. Whether it’s optimizing for runway length, managing wind conditions, or ensuring safety in icing scenarios, understanding the benefits and limitations of flaps can make a significant difference in the safe and efficient operation of an aircraft.