Glide Ratio
Definition
The ratio of horizontal distance traveled to altitude lost in unpowered flight. A glide ratio of 10:1 means the aircraft travels 10 units forward for every 1 unit of altitude lost. Higher is better.
Why Glide Ratio Matters for Pilots
Performance planning directly affects flight safety. Knowing how Glide Ratio works helps you calculate whether a takeoff or landing is safe for given conditions. FAA and EASA exams frequently test performance concepts, and examiners expect you to apply Glide Ratio to real-world scenarios during oral exams and checkrides.
Exam Tip
This concept is commonly tested in performance-related questions on FAA and EASA exams. Make sure you can explain Glide Ratio in your own words for the oral exam. Practice applying this concept to real-world scenarios, not just memorizing the definition.
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