What happens during plane landing? While landing, the speed of air and descent rate decrease to such an extent that the aircraft descends at a rate that allows it to land or touch down on the ground gently and gradually. The speed reduction and low descent rate allow pilots land in an appropriate direction.

When a plane prepares to land, it undergoes a complex transition from high-speed flight to a controlled descent. The pilot first reduces engine thrust and extends the flaps and slats on the wings to increase surface area and lift at lower speeds. As the plane touches down, several mechanical systems work in unison to stop the 200-ton machine. The spoilers (metal plates on top of the wings) pop up to "spoil" the lift and push the plane's weight onto the wheels for better traction. Simultaneously, the pilot engages reverse thrust, where the engine cowlings open to redirect the jet exhaust forward, creating a massive "braking" force. On the ground, the aircraft's carbon-disk brakes (similar to a car's but much larger) clamp down to dissipate energy as heat. In 2026, modern planes also use "autobrake" settings that calculate the exact amount of pressure needed based on the runway length and weather conditions. This entire process—from the "flare" just before the wheels touch to the final turn off the runway—happens in less than 60 seconds.