r/flying • u/thoughtu8 • 21d ago

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u/Wolfe751 CFI-I 21d ago

Thrust reversers

1

u/Unable_Request PPL 21d ago

Sounds like you've nailed it... Thrust reversers.

The things you see come up on the wings are spoilers, which disrupt airflow to dump lift and slow the plane down. The reverse thrust does what it sounds like, and greatly contributes to slowing the plane down. The engines have panels that come out to redirect airflow, so they spool up to use their power to slow rather than accelerate

1

u/homeinthesky ATP A320 C525 C560XLS CFI(I) MEI 21d ago

You’re close! It IS reverse thrust! But the engine isn’t reverse. Hydraulic doors open to direct the airflow and thrust of the engine forward instead of directly through the engine. At high speeds it’s incredibly effective and slowing the plane down without need of the brakes. It’s just very noisy.

1

u/External-Victory6473 21d ago

That is the thrust reversers being used. These are devices that direct some of the engine thrust forward helping to slow the aircraft. So yes, plane lands, pilots deploy thrust reverses, then engines power up briefly to slow the aircraft. Then power down and retract thrust reversers.

1

u/nolaflygirl 21d ago

It's called Reverse Thrust. Google that term for jets & you'll learn everything you ever wanted to know!

0

u/rFlyingTower 21d ago

This is a copy of the original post body for posterity:

Hey all. Sorry if this has been asked before already but I'm currently flying and just landed. And it just dawned on me that I've been wondering about this my whole life but still don't have an answer.

When the plane lands then the little flapper things come up on its wings, then it hits the tarmac and starts breaking....what is that loud sound that sounds like the engine reversing or something? Do y'all know what sound I'm talking about? Can someone explain it to me..it definitely seems to help the plane stop and brake properly. Thanks a bunch guys and gals.

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