What is ground effect?

Ground effect refers to the aerodynamic phenomenon where the lift generated by an aircraft increases when it is flying close to a solid surface, such as the ground. This effect is primarily caused by the reduction of induced drag when an aircraft is near the ground, as the ground limits the formation of vortices that normally occur at the wingtips while generating lift.

When an aircraft is flying at low altitudes, the airflow around the wings is altered due to the proximity of the ground. This results in a greater pressure differential between the upper and lower surfaces of the wings, leading to an overall increase in lift. Pilots often experience this effect during takeoff and landing phases, where the aircraft can lift off at a lower speed than it would in free air, providing a safety margin during critical phases of flight.

Understanding ground effect is crucial for pilots to manage their aircraft's behavior during takeoff and landing efficiently, ensuring they are aware of how the aircraft may perform differently when close to the ground.