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AerodynamicsQuestion 447 of 934

An airplane enters ground effect during landing with a constant angle of attack. What happens?

  1. The lift coefficient decreases and the thrust required decreases
  2. The lift coefficient increases and the thrust required increases
  3. The lift coefficient increases and the thrust required decreases
  4. The lift coefficient and the thrust required both stay constant
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Correct answer: The lift coefficient increases and the thrust required decreases

The aircraft can float because of the extra lift and the lower drag.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight — Ground Effect, page 109

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026