Boeing 737-800 Landing Speed with Full Flaps: Understanding the Factors and Procedure

The landing speed for a Boeing 737-800 with full flaps typically ranges from about 130 to 140 knots, or approximately 150 to 160 miles per hour (mph) or 240 to 260 kilometers per hour (km/h). This speed can vary based on several factors including aircraft weight, weather conditions, and specific airline operating procedures. Pilots determine the exact landing speed using their aircraft's weight and configuration on approach.

Factors Influencing Landing Speed

Several factors can affect the landing speed of a Boeing 737-800, including:

Aircraft weight Weater conditions Airline operating procedures

At maximum landing weight of 144,000 pounds, the flaps set to 30 degrees and Vref is 150 knots. Pilots often add 5 knots to that value, resulting in a landing speed of 155 knots. This general procedure applies to Boeing 757, 767, and 777 aircraft as well, with slight adjustments. For instance, the 757/767/777 use flaps 20 at the flap 20 speed.

Effect of Flap Configuration

Flap setting plays a crucial role in determining the wings' lift coefficient and aerodynamic drag. When the flaps are lowered to an angle, the lift coefficient increases, reducing the stalling speed and the required takeoff speed. This means that the same lift can be achieved at a smaller airspeed due to a greater lift coefficient.

When flaps are lowered, the airspeed will decrease unless the power is increased or the pitch attitude is lowered. Therefore, on final approach, pilots must estimate where the aircraft will land through discerning judgment of the descent angle. Proper consideration of the glide slope is essential to ensure a safe landing.

Aircraft Flap Settings

Aircraft typically use takeoff flap settings between 5-15 degrees, with leading edge slats being used as well. In contrast, for landing, aircraft often use 25-40 degrees of flaps, which require a higher landing speed to ensure safety in case of any ATC instructions or runway incursions.

The specific landing speed for a Boeing 737-800 can vary, but it is generally within the range of 135-150 knots. This high-speed landing is necessary to allow the aircraft to pull up or execute a go-around if required, and the flaps being down means a higher speed is needed to maintain lift.

Resources and Further Reading

Boeing provides a vast amount of data for the operation of their aircraft at various airports. For detailed information, refer to the Boeing 737 manual available on their official website.

Conclusion

Understanding the landing speed of a Boeing 737-800 with full flaps is essential for pilots and aviation enthusiasts alike. Factors such as aircraft weight, weather conditions, and specific operating procedures can significantly influence the landing speed. Proper management of these factors is crucial for a safe and efficient landing.

If you have any further questions or need more information, please refer to the Boeing 737 manual or consult an aviation expert.