AIRPLANE LANDINGS - PASS ICAO ENGLISH

Airplane landings are complex maneuvers that involve several interesting phenomena due to aerodynamics, weather conditions, and pilot techniques. Here are some common phenomena that occur during airplane landings:

1. Ground Effect

What It Is: Ground effect occurs when an aircraft is close to the ground (typically within a wingspan’s distance), causing an increase in lift and a reduction in drag.
Why It Happens: As the aircraft approaches the ground, the wingtip vortices (spirals of air created by the wings) are disrupted by the proximity of the ground. This interruption reduces drag, allowing the plane to “float” or “hover” slightly above the runway.
Impact on Landing: Ground effect can make it harder to bring the airplane down onto the runway, often requiring pilots to counteract this “floating” effect and ensure a smooth touchdown.

2. Flare

What It Is: The flare is the final phase of landing, where the pilot raises the nose of the aircraft just before touchdown to reduce descent rate and create a smoother landing.
Why It Happens: By lifting the nose slightly, the plane’s rate of descent slows, allowing for a gentler landing and protecting the landing gear from hard impacts.
Impact on Landing: The timing and degree of the flare are critical. If the pilot flares too high, the plane might stall and drop suddenly, leading to a hard landing. If the pilot flares too late, the landing can be rougher.

3. Crosswind Landing

What It Is: A landing where the wind is blowing across the runway, rather than in line with it.
Why It Happens: Crosswinds are common at airports and can create challenges for landing, as they push the aircraft sideways while it’s trying to descend in a straight path.
Impact on Landing: Pilots use techniques like the “crab” method (aligning the nose into the wind) or the “side-slip” method (one wing lower than the other) to counteract the wind and maintain a stable approach. Crosswind landings require precise handling to ensure a safe touchdown and prevent the plane from veering off the runway.

4. Wind Shear and Microbursts

What It Is: Wind shear is a sudden change in wind speed and/or direction. Microbursts are intense, localized downdrafts.
Why It Happens: These phenomena are often associated with thunderstorms or severe weather conditions.
Impact on Landing: Wind shear and microbursts can cause sudden loss of airspeed and lift, putting the aircraft at risk during the critical landing phase. Airports and pilots monitor for wind shear alerts, and pilots are trained to go around (abort landing) if they encounter severe wind shear.

5. Runway Slipperiness (Wet or Icy Runways)

What It Is: Wet, icy, or snowy runways can reduce friction between the airplane’s tires and the runway surface.
Why It Happens: Rain, snow, ice, or even rubber buildup from previous landings can create slick surfaces, making it harder for the plane to decelerate.
Impact on Landing: Reduced friction can cause longer landing distances and increase the risk of skidding or hydroplaning. Pilots use techniques like applying reverse thrust, brakes, and spoilers carefully to decelerate effectively on slippery surfaces.

6. Wake Turbulence

What It Is: Wake turbulence is the turbulent air created by the passage of an aircraft, especially large ones, as they move through the air.
Why It Happens: When a plane generates lift, it creates a pair of spiraling air currents or vortices from the wingtips. These vortices are stronger in large aircraft like jets and can pose a risk to following planes.
Impact on Landing: If a smaller aircraft encounters the wake turbulence of a larger one too closely, it can destabilize the smaller plane, especially during landing. To avoid this, air traffic control ensures adequate spacing between aircraft on approach.

7. Autoland and Instrument Landing Systems (ILS)

What It Is: Autoland is an automated landing system used by many modern aircraft, especially in low-visibility conditions. ILS is a navigation aid that provides lateral and vertical guidance to help planes approach the runway accurately.
Why It Happens: Autoland and ILS help pilots land safely during fog, heavy rain, or other conditions that reduce visibility.
Impact on Landing: With autoland, the autopilot guides the plane through final approach and touchdown, minimizing human error in low-visibility conditions. Pilots monitor the system closely and are ready to intervene if needed.

8. Floating and Ballooning

What It Is: Floating is when the airplane remains above the runway longer than intended due to excess airspeed. Ballooning happens if the plane rises unexpectedly during the flare.
Why It Happens: If the aircraft is approaching with too much speed, it can enter ground effect and “float” above the runway. Ballooning often happens when the pilot pulls back too much during the flare.
Impact on Landing: Floating can cause the plane to overshoot the intended landing spot, potentially needing a go-around. Ballooning can lead to a hard landing if not controlled correctly.

9. Go-Around or Missed Approach

What It Is: A go-around is when the pilot aborts the landing and ascends to try the landing again.
Why It Happens: Go-arounds can be due to various factors like unstable approaches, poor visibility, runway obstructions, or misalignment with the runway.
Impact on Landing: Go-arounds are standard procedures and help prevent unsafe landings. The pilot regains altitude, circles back, and prepares for a stabilized approach on the next attempt.

10. Spoilers and Reverse Thrust on Landing

What It Is: Spoilers are panels on the wings that reduce lift, while reverse thrust redirects engine exhaust forward to help slow down the plane after touchdown.
Why It Happens: Upon landing, spoilers and reverse thrust are deployed to help the airplane decelerate quickly and safely.
Impact on Landing: Spoilers reduce lift to keep the plane grounded on the runway, and reverse thrust assists braking to slow the plane down for a safe exit from the runway.

11. Tailwind Landings

What It Is: A landing with wind blowing from behind the aircraft instead of the front.
Why It Happens: Ideally, planes land into headwinds, but sometimes a tailwind landing is necessary due to runway orientation or wind changes.
Impact on Landing: Tailwinds can increase the aircraft’s ground speed, leading to longer landing distances and the potential for runway overruns. Pilots must adjust their landing technique accordingly or may choose to go around if conditions are too risky.

Each of these phenomena requires specific training and techniques, and pilots are well-prepared to handle them safely, ensuring smooth and controlled landings in a wide range of conditions.

In ICAO English assessments, questions about airplane landings evaluate a pilot’s ability to communicate clearly and effectively about landing procedures, potential challenges, and decision-making during approach and touchdown. These questions often focus on safety, situational awareness, and how to handle various landing-related scenarios. Here are some examples of ICAO English questions about airplane landings, along with guidance on how to respond:

1. General Questions About Landing Procedures

Question: “What steps do you take to prepare for landing?”
Guidance: Explain that you follow a checklist, which includes lowering the landing gear, setting flaps, reducing speed, and performing instrument and systems checks. Mention that you also communicate with ATC to confirm clearance for landing and make adjustments based on wind conditions or other traffic.
Question: “How do you ensure a stabilized approach during landing?”
Guidance: Describe that a stabilized approach means maintaining a consistent descent rate, correct airspeed, and alignment with the runway centerline. You monitor key parameters, such as altitude, speed, and descent rate, and make small adjustments as needed to keep the approach stable.

2. Questions About Landing in Adverse Weather Conditions

Question: “How would you handle a landing in strong crosswinds?”
Guidance: Explain that you would use crosswind landing techniques, such as the “crab” method (aligning the nose into the wind) or the “wing-low” method to maintain runway alignment. Mention that you carefully monitor wind conditions and may request an alternate runway if crosswinds exceed safe limits.
Question: “What precautions do you take when landing in low visibility due to fog?”
Guidance: Mention that you would rely on the Instrument Landing System (ILS) or other approach aids to guide you to the runway. You would reduce speed, follow ATC instructions closely, and be prepared to execute a go-around if visibility drops further.

3. Go-Around and Missed Approach Questions

Question: “When would you decide to initiate a go-around during landing?”
Guidance: Explain that you would go around if the approach becomes unstable, if visibility is insufficient, or if there is an obstacle or unexpected traffic on the runway. Emphasize that safety is the priority, and a go-around is a standard procedure to ensure a safe landing on the next attempt.
Question: “How would you communicate a go-around to ATC?”
Guidance: Describe that you would announce “Going around” to ATC, provide your current altitude, and follow any instructions for the go-around procedure. You would then wait for further clearance to re-enter the approach pattern for another landing attempt.

4. Landing Gear and Equipment Malfunction Questions

Question: “What would you do if the landing gear fails to extend?”
Guidance: Explain that you would first try to troubleshoot the issue, such as using the backup or manual gear extension system. You would inform ATC of the situation and prepare for a possible gear-up (belly) landing if necessary. Mention that you would brief the cabin crew and passengers on emergency landing procedures.
Question: “How would you handle a brake failure upon landing?”
Guidance: Mention that you would use reverse thrust and deploy spoilers to slow the aircraft. If necessary, you would request emergency assistance and prepare to use the emergency brakes. Describe that you would inform ATC of the situation and follow emergency protocols to ensure passenger safety.

5. Communication with ATC During Landing

Question: “What information do you provide to ATC before landing?”
Guidance: Explain that you would inform ATC of your position, altitude, and intentions (e.g., “established on final approach”). You confirm your landing clearance and provide any additional information if necessary, such as requests for runway changes or updates on traffic.
Question: “If ATC instructs you to circle the airport before landing, how would you respond?”
Guidance: Describe that you would acknowledge the instruction, maintain a safe altitude, and follow the ATC’s directions for the circling maneuver. Explain that you would prepare to re-establish your approach once ATC provides clearance.

6. Landing in Emergency Situations

Question: “How would you manage an emergency landing in rough terrain if a runway is unavailable?”
Guidance: Mention that you would look for a suitable, flat area to attempt a controlled landing, such as an open field or a body of water if necessary. You would inform ATC of your location, secure the cabin, and follow emergency landing procedures to minimize impact.
Question: “If you need to land immediately due to a medical emergency on board, how would you communicate this to ATC?”
Guidance: Explain that you would declare a “medical emergency” to ATC, request priority for landing, and provide the location of the nearest suitable airport. You would keep ATC updated on the situation and follow their instructions to expedite the landing.

7. Runway and Touchdown Questions

Question: “How do you ensure a smooth touchdown on the runway?”
Guidance: Describe that you aim to maintain a stabilized approach, flare the aircraft at the right height to reduce descent rate, and touch down gently on the main landing gear. You monitor airspeed and alignment to ensure a safe and controlled landing.
Question: “What would you do if you experience a hard landing?”
Guidance: Explain that you would assess the aircraft for any structural damage, follow the procedures to stop safely, and report the incident to ATC. You would request maintenance checks before continuing or disembarking passengers.

8. Short Runway and High Altitude Landing Questions

Question: “How does landing on a short runway differ from landing on a longer one?”
Guidance: Mention that a short runway requires a more precise approach and landing, as well as effective use of braking and reverse thrust to stop within the limited space. You plan for a steeper approach and ensure you are at the correct landing speed to avoid overrunning the runway.
Question: “How does high altitude affect landing performance?”
Guidance: Explain that at higher altitudes, the air is less dense, reducing lift and affecting the aircraft’s performance. You might need to approach at a higher speed and anticipate a longer landing roll, compensating for the thinner air by adjusting your approach and braking techniques.

9. Wet or Icy Runway Landing Questions

Question: “What adjustments do you make when landing on a wet or icy runway?”
Guidance: Describe that you would approach with a slightly slower speed to reduce the risk of hydroplaning, use spoilers and reverse thrust carefully, and apply brakes cautiously to avoid skidding. Mention that you monitor braking effectiveness and prepare to go around if necessary.
Question: “How would you communicate to ATC if you experience reduced braking action on a wet runway?”
Guidance: Explain that you would inform ATC by saying, “Reduced braking action,” and provide details about your position on the runway. You would follow any further instructions from ATC and prepare for a possible emergency response if braking is insufficient.

10. Landing Performance and Go-Around Decision Making

Question: “What factors do you consider to determine whether a landing is safe or if a go-around is needed?”
Guidance: Describe factors like stability of the approach, visibility, wind conditions, runway length, and any obstructions. You would go around if any of these factors compromise safety, as maintaining a safe approach is essential for a successful landing.
Question: “If ATC clears you to land but you feel conditions are unsafe, what would you do?”
Guidance: Explain that you would prioritize safety by informing ATC of your intention to go around. You would communicate your concerns, such as visibility or alignment issues, and request clearance for another approach when conditions improve.

Tips for Responding to Landing-Related Questions

Use Specific Terminology: Use precise terms like “stabilized approach,” “flare,” “crosswind technique,” “ILS,” “go-around,” and “touchdown” to show familiarity with landing procedures.
Emphasize Safety and Decision-Making: Focus on the importance of safe decision-making, particularly when discussing go-arounds, adverse weather, and emergency situations.
Demonstrate Effective Communication with ATC: Explain how you would clearly communicate intentions, requests, and issues to ATC throughout the landing phase.
Describe Adjustments for Special Conditions: Show how you adapt landing techniques for specific challenges like crosswinds, low visibility, wet runways, or high-altitude airports.
Highlight Crew Coordination and Passenger Safety: In emergency scenarios, mention your role in briefing the cabin crew and ensuring passenger safety.

These questions assess a candidate’s ability to communicate effectively about landing operations, handle unexpected challenges, and prioritize safety during approach and landing. Clear, confident answers that reflect good decision-making and coordination demonstrate strong ICAO English proficiency.

Here are some sample ICAO English answers about airplane landings. These answers demonstrate knowledge of landing procedures, situational awareness, safety protocols, and communication with air traffic control (ATC), which are critical in handling routine and non-routine landing scenarios.

1. What factors do you consider when preparing for landing?

Answer: When preparing for landing, I consider factors such as weather conditions, wind speed and direction, runway length, and traffic at the destination airport. I also follow the landing checklist to set flaps, check the landing gear, and adjust speed to ensure a safe and controlled approach.

2. How do you ensure a stabilized approach during landing?

Answer: A stabilized approach means maintaining the correct descent rate, speed, and alignment with the runway centerline. I monitor key parameters closely, make small adjustments as necessary, and follow ATC instructions to ensure a safe and consistent approach path.

3. What would you do if you experience a crosswind during landing?

Answer: In crosswind conditions, I would use crosswind landing techniques, such as the crab or wing-low method, to maintain runway alignment. I monitor wind conditions throughout the approach and make sure that I am within the aircraft’s crosswind limitations. If the crosswind is too strong, I would consider a go-around and consult ATC about using an alternate runway.

4. What steps would you take if you need to initiate a go-around?

Answer: If a go-around is necessary, I would increase power, retract the flaps to the appropriate setting, and climb to a safe altitude. I would inform ATC of my decision to go around and follow their instructions for rejoining the approach or holding until further clearance is given.

5. How would you handle a landing on a wet or icy runway?

Answer: On a wet or icy runway, I would adjust my approach speed to reduce the risk of hydroplaning, deploy spoilers after touchdown, and use reverse thrust and brakes carefully to control deceleration. I would also monitor the braking action reports and, if necessary, request an alternate runway from ATC if conditions are unsafe.

6. What would you do if you experience a brake failure upon landing?

Answer: In the event of a brake failure, I would use reverse thrust and deploy spoilers to slow down the aircraft. If the situation remains critical, I would activate emergency braking systems if available, inform ATC, and prepare for emergency assistance on the runway to ensure a safe stop.

7. How do you handle landing in low visibility conditions?

Answer: In low visibility, I rely on the Instrument Landing System (ILS) or other navigation aids to guide my approach. I reduce speed to maintain control, follow ATC instructions closely, and be prepared for a go-around if visibility falls below safe limits.

8. What would you do if there’s an obstacle on the runway during landing?

Answer: If I see an obstacle on the runway, I would immediately initiate a go-around to avoid it and inform ATC of the obstruction. I would follow ATC’s instructions for an alternate approach or use another runway if necessary to ensure a safe landing.

9. What is a stabilized approach, and why is it important?

Answer: A stabilized approach involves maintaining a constant descent rate, speed, and alignment with the runway, starting from a specific altitude. It is important because it reduces the need for sudden adjustments during landing, allowing for a safer and more controlled touchdown.

10. How do you communicate with ATC during the landing phase?

Answer: During landing, I inform ATC of my position, confirm landing clearance, and report any changes in conditions that might affect the approach. Clear communication with ATC ensures they are aware of my status, and it allows them to manage traffic and respond to any issues promptly.

11. What steps would you take if you experience wind shear on approach?

Answer: If I encounter wind shear, I would execute a go-around to avoid the unstable conditions, inform ATC of the situation, and wait for instructions on whether to hold or attempt another approach when conditions improve. Wind shear can be dangerous, so it’s important to prioritize safety.

12. How would you handle a landing gear malfunction during approach?

Answer: If the landing gear fails to extend, I would try to troubleshoot the issue using the manual gear extension procedure. I would inform ATC of the problem, declare an emergency, and prepare for a potential gear-up landing if necessary, briefing the crew and passengers on emergency procedures.

13. What do you do if you have to land at an airport with a shorter-than-expected runway?

Answer: For a short runway, I would adjust my approach to ensure I touch down within the first third of the runway. I would use full reverse thrust and braking upon touchdown to minimize the stopping distance. I may also request information on runway conditions from ATC to confirm it’s safe to land.

14. How do you ensure passenger safety during landing?

Answer: I ensure passenger safety by following a stabilized approach, monitoring runway conditions, and communicating with the cabin crew to secure the cabin. In case of a go-around or emergency, I communicate with the crew and passengers to keep everyone informed and calm.

15. What would you do if you experience a hard landing?

Answer: If I experience a hard landing, I would immediately assess the aircraft for structural damage and follow procedures to come to a safe stop. I would inform ATC and request assistance if necessary, ensuring that the aircraft undergoes maintenance checks before continuing further operations.

16. What is the purpose of the Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI)?

Answer: The PAPI provides visual guidance on the correct glide slope for landing. Seeing two white and two red lights indicates that I am on the correct descent path. If I see all white, I am too high; if all red, I am too low. This guidance helps maintain a safe approach angle.

17. How does landing with a tailwind affect your approach?

Answer: Landing with a tailwind increases the ground speed, requiring a longer distance to decelerate. In tailwind conditions, I would ensure the wind is within the aircraft’s tailwind limitations, adjust approach speed if necessary, and use maximum braking and reverse thrust after touchdown to stop safely.

18. How do you manage safety if ATC instructs you to circle the airport before landing?

Answer: If instructed to circle, I maintain situational awareness, keep visual contact with the runway, and follow ATC instructions for altitude and direction. I ensure a safe distance from other aircraft, adjust speed as necessary, and prepare to re-establish a stabilized approach when clearance is given.

19. How does high altitude affect landing performance?

Answer: At high altitudes, the air is less dense, which affects lift and reduces engine performance. This means I need to approach at a higher speed and expect a longer landing roll. I prepare for these adjustments and ensure there is sufficient runway length for a safe landing.

20. What would you do if ATC delays your landing clearance and fuel is low?

Answer: If fuel is low, I would inform ATC by declaring “minimum fuel” status, which means I cannot accept further delays. If the situation becomes critical, I would escalate to a “fuel emergency,” declare “Mayday,” and request priority for landing to ensure a safe arrival.

These answers cover various aspects of airplane landings, demonstrating clear communication, situational awareness, and adherence to safety protocols. Each response emphasizes the importance of stable approaches, safety procedures, and effective communication with ATC and the crew to handle both routine and non-routine landing scenarios.