Airplane Landings and Takeoffs: Frequency and Wear on Landing Gear

The number of times an airplane can take off and land in a day varies significantly depending on the type of aircraft, weather conditions, and operational needs. This article delves into the factors that influence the frequency of landings and takesoffs, and the impact on the aircraft's landing gear.

Factors Influencing Landing and Takeoff Frequencies

The frequency at which an airplane can take off and land in a day is influenced by a variety of factors, including the type of aircraft, the weather, and the operational requirements.

Light Aircraft

Light aircraft, such as those used for training, can frequently perform "touch and go" circuits, where the plane lands and takes off almost immediately. These aircraft can theoretically complete a series of landings and takeoffs in a single day, with the number dependent on the aircraft's capabilities and engine fuel efficiency. The NASA Armstrong Flight Research Center explains that some light aircraft might conduct as many as 40 landings and takeoffs per day during training sessions. However, it's important to note that the landing gear may start to wear down after extended use.

Training Aircraft

During my time as a student pilot in US Navy Flight Training, we flew training aircraft that could make up to 40 landings per day. Unfortunately, several of these training aircraft experienced mechanical failures, with landing gear breaking off during takeoffs or landings. When this happened, the crews had to rely on the remaining gear to land the aircraft. This highlights the importance of regular maintenance and the stress that frequent landings and takeoffs can have on an aircraft's components.

Commercial Airports

Commercial airports, especially those serving high-traffic routes, can handle a significant number of landings and takeoffs daily. For instance, military aircraft like Apaches, which were trained at Fort Rucker, could take off and land up to 120 times a day if operating in three different time periods (morning, afternoon, and night). However, commuter flights shuttling back and forth between a hub and a spoke might only perform a dozen takeoffs and landings in a single day, depending on their operational schedule.

Historic Records

There are unconfirmed records of a historic day during a service mission in Vietnam, in 1968, when the pilot managed to perform an incredible 84 landings in a day. This, however, was under the assumption that a takeoff occurred before each landing, which might not be the case. The exact number can vary based on operational records and whether takeoffs are logged.

Helicopter Operation

As a helicopter pilot, I have experienced days where the frequency of takeoffs and landings was exceptionally high, reaching over 100 times in a single day. This is due to the nature of helicopter operations, which often require frequent landings and takeoffs to perform various tasks such as rescue missions or logistics support.

Impact on Landing Gear

The frequent takeoffs and landings can take a significant toll on an aircraft's landing gear. The repeated stress on the components can result in wear and tear, eventual mechanical failure, and the need for maintenance. Proper inspection, maintenance, and replacement of worn parts are crucial to ensuring the safety and reliability of the aircraft.

Conclusion

The frequency of airplane landings and takeoffs can vary greatly based on the type of aircraft, operational requirements, and weather conditions. While some aircraft, particularly light training or commercial aircraft, can handle a high number of landings daily, the overall impact on the landing gear must be carefully managed to ensure the safety and longevity of the aircraft. Regular maintenance and inspection are essential to mitigate the effects of frequent operations on the components.