Private Pilot Private Exam

What must a pilot be aware of regarding induced drag in ground effect?

1. Induced drag decreases and may lead to excessive lift

2. Induced drag increases and requires more control input

3. Induced drag remains the same regardless of speed

4. Induced drag is irrelevant during landings

The correct answer is: Induced drag decreases and may lead to excessive lift

Induced drag is a result of lift generation and is a key concept for pilots to understand, especially during takeoff and landing phases of flight. In ground effect, which occurs when an aircraft is close to the surface, the interaction between the wings and the ground alters the airflow patterns around the aircraft. When a pilot is in ground effect, the induced drag decreases. This reduction occurs because the ground limits the extent of the wingtip vortices that form as a byproduct of lift. These vortices are responsible for a significant portion of induced drag. As these vortices are constrained and dissipate more quickly in a ground effect situation, the overall drag force on the aircraft is reduced. This decrease in induced drag can lead to an increase in lift at the same airspeed, making the aircraft feel "lighter" and potentially allowing for higher angles of attack without experiencing the same drag penalties. However, pilots must remain aware that this situation can lead to excessive lift if they do not manage their descent properly, which can result in issues like ballooning during landings if they are not careful. Understanding this aspect of induced drag in ground effect is crucial for effective aircraft control during landing and takeoff, especially to avoid a scenario where the pilot inadvertently allows