Airplane Takeoff Performance

In this paper a general equation for calculating the takeoff performance of landplanes is developed in terms of the usual airplane parameters. The analysis enables the ground effect, wind and atmospheric conditions, altitude, and the use of flaps to be taken into account. A simple and rapid method is presented for the determination of the best flap angle to be used for takeoff. Variation in takeoff performance due to changes in any of the airplane or engine-propeller characteristics is readily determined through the introduction of a new takeoff acceleration parameter. A method for calculating the propeller speed, engine power, and thrust variation for both fixed-pitch and constant-speed propellers is included, and a new significance is given to the thrust versus square of velocity curve for takeoff computations. Examples are included to illustrate the use of the analysis in solving the various takeoff problems.