Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
NARRATOR: When water causes a vehicle's tires to lose
contact with the road, the effect is called hydroplaning…
And its affects can be dangerous, especially at high speeds.
Commercial aircraft touch down on the runway at speeds
between 160 and 170 miles per hour. Maintaining contact
with the runway surface is critically important.
NASA researchers studied water buildup on runways and
determined that by cutting thin grooves in the pavement -
performing as the tread of a tire - water would channel away
from the surface and reduce the risk of hydroplaning.
The NASA research aimed at improving runway safety for
aircraft has found its way on America's roadways
Now, highway builders groove pavement to help prevent
cars from hydroplaning.
Winter's ice and snow create additional safety hazards for
aircraft as they land. NASA studied how airplanes braked in
these conditions to develop the International Runway Friction
Index. This guide helps airport operators assess runway
conditions to help pilots execute a safe and smooth landing.
NASA research has also improved tire and landing gear design
for added passenger safety in all weather conditions.