College

Are reduced thrust take-offs permitted on wet runways? Contaminated runways?

A. Yes, on wet runways only
B. Yes, on both wet and contaminated runways
C. No, never
D. Only with special authorization from the airport authorities

Answer :

Final answer:

Reduced thrust takeoffs are generally permitted on wet and contaminated runways, dependent on airline policy and safety assessments. The use of reduced thrust seeks to reduce engine wear and maintenance costs. The correct answer is that reduced thrust takeoffs are possible on both wet and contaminated runways if safety conditions allow.

Explanation:

The use of reduced thrust takeoff (T/O) techniques on wet and contaminated runways is a practice that airlines and pilots employ to prolong engine life and reduce maintenance costs by not using the full thrust the engines can produce unless necessary. Reduced thrust takeoffs are generally permitted on wet runways, but whether they can be used on contaminated runways depends on the airline's policy, aircraft type, performance calculation methods, and consideration of safety margins.

For option (a), it is true that reduced thrust is allowed on wet runways as long as performance calculations show it's safe to do so. For option (b), on contaminated runways, which include runways covered by snow, ice, or significant standing water, using reduced thrust would depend on a thorough assessment of the risks involved.

Option (c) is incorrect as reduced thrust takeoffs are indeed utilized under certain conditions. Option (d) is also not the standard as such decisions are made by airline operating procedures and pilot discretion based on aircraft performance calculations rather than airport authorities.

In conclusion, the correct answer is: (b) Yes, on both wet and contaminated runways, but it is of utmost importance for airlines and flight crews to follow strict procedures and safety guidelines when using reduced thrust techniques in such conditions.