AerodynamicsQuestion 449 of 934

An airplane seems able to take off below the recommended speed because of reduced drag in ground effect. What should the pilot do?

  1. Lift off early and accelerate in ground effect
  2. Wait for the recommended takeoff speed
  3. Retract the gear at once after liftoff
  4. Raise the flaps early to cut the drag
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Correct answer: Wait for the recommended takeoff speed

The pilot should not force the aircraft airborne with a deficiency of speed. The recommended speed gives adequate initial climb performance.

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