Why do pilots need to know the temperature?

While no pilot can look in a crystal ball and know for certain what the weather will bring, it is important that they understand the trends and can predict what is likely to occur. Without good forecast and updates on what the weather is doing at the time of a flight pilots wouldn’t be able to do their job.

How does rain affect takeoff performance?

At some point in time runways will be contaminated with rain, snow or slush. You will have to allow for these circumstances as the result can be directional control problems, reduced braking action (or hydroplaning) and more drag on takeoff.

What affects engine performance?

Engine performance is often characterized by the engine operating behavior in the speed–load domain, for example, the behavior of emissions, fuel consumption, noise, mechanical and thermal loading.

At what temp do planes stop flying?

“Jet fuel begins to gel in extreme conditions and does eventually freeze, typically at minus 40 or so, although additives can be included that reduce that further,” says Haines. “Aircraft at cruising altitude will often experience temperatures of minus 50 to minus 70 F for hours on end.”

How does the weather affect pilots?

Aircraft behave differently depending on the weather, for example air temperature and wind speed both affect aircraft performance. So, before and during a flight, pilots will keep informed about any weather that could affect their planned route. We may need to alter our plans to avoid weather that could be detrimental.

What is the effect of temperature on aircraft performance?

As temperature and altitude increases, the optimum performance of the aircraft also decreases. In high temperature, air density decreases. For instance, during a hot sunny day, the aircraft needs more runway, faster approach, and poor climb rate.

How does gross weight affect takeoff performance?

Increased gross weight can be considered to produce a threefold effect on takeoff performance: If the gross weight increases, a greater speed is necessary to produce the greater lift necessary to get the aircraft airborne at the takeoff lift coefficient.

How does air density affect takeoff and landing performance?

The less dense the air, the less lift, the more lackluster the climb, and the longer the distance needed for takeoff and landing. Fewer air molecules in a given volume of air also result in reduced propeller efficiency and therefore reduced net thrust.

How does humidity affect takeoff and landing times?

On a hot and humid day, the aircraft will accelerate more slowly down the runway, will need to move faster to attain the same lift, and will climb more slowly. The less dense the air, the less lift, the more lackluster the climb, and the longer the distance needed for takeoff and landing.