Takeoff is the phase of flight in which an aerospace vehicle leaves the ground and becomes airborne. For aircraft traveling vertically, this is known as liftoff.
In the aerospace context, takeoff refers to the process of an aircraft or spacecraft leaving the ground and becoming airborne. The process of takeoff involves a combination of power from the engines, lift from the wings, and thrust from the tail of the aircraft to overcome the force of gravity and become airborne.
Examples of takeoffs in the aerospace context include:
- Runway takeoff: This is the most common type of takeoff, and it involves an aircraft using a runway to become airborne. The aircraft accelerates down the runway, using the thrust from its engines to overcome the force of gravity and lift off.
- Vertical takeoff: This type of takeoff is used by aircraft that are capable of taking off and landing vertically, such as helicopters and VTOL (Vertical Take-off and Landing) aircraft. The aircraft takes off vertically, using the lift from its rotors or fans to become airborne.
- Space launch: This type of takeoff is used by spacecraft to leave the Earth's atmosphere and enter into space. The spacecraft is launched using a rocket, which provides the thrust necessary to overcome the force of gravity and lift off.
Takeoff is a critical phase of flight and it requires precise coordination and execution from the pilots, ground crew and air traffic control. It is also subject to regulations and safety procedures to ensure the safe operation of the aircraft and the protection of the people and property on the ground.