Following a landing on a dry runway, what is generally the MOST effective method of decelerating the aircraft?

Understand the Problem

The question asks which method is generally the MOST effective for decelerating an aircraft after landing on a dry runway. We need to consider the pros and cons of reverse thrust, airbrakes/spoilers, and antiskid brakes to determine their effectiveness in reducing speed.

More Information

Wheel brakes are generally the most effective method for decelerating an aircraft on a dry runway because they provide the most direct and consistent stopping force. Other methods, such as spoilers and reverse thrust, also contribute to deceleration but are typically more effective at higher speeds or in specific conditions.

Tips

A common mistake is to assume that reverse thrust is the most effective method in all landing scenarios. While reverse thrust is helpful, especially at higher speeds or on wet/contaminated runways, wheel brakes provide the greatest overall stopping power on a dry surface.

Sources

• Deceleration on the Runway | SKYbrary Aviation Safety - skybrary.aero
• What is the preferred way to slow down an airliner on a long runway? - aviation.stackexchange.com
• FSF ALAR Briefing Note 8.4 -- Braking Devices - flightsafety.org