What is touch and go?

"Touch and go" is a term primarily used in aviation to describe a maneuver in which an aircraft lands on a runway and then immediately takes off again without coming to a full stop. This practice is commonly used for training purposes, allowing pilots to practice landing approaches and takeoffs in quick succession. Here's some more information about touch and go operations:

1. Training Tool: Touch and go maneuvers are a fundamental part of pilot training. They help pilots become proficient in managing the aircraft's landing and takeoff processes and handling the aircraft during these critical phases of flight.

2. Procedure: In a typical touch and go, the aircraft approaches the runway as if performing a regular landing. After touching down, the pilot increases engine power and takes off directly without stopping.

3. Traffic Patterns: During touch and go practice, pilots often follow standard traffic patterns, which are predetermined routes that aircraft follow when taking off, landing, or practicing approaches at an airport. This helps maintain order and safety in the airspace around the airport.

4. Aircraft Types: While touch and goes are most commonly performed by smaller general aviation aircraft, they can also be executed by larger aircraft, including military jets, for training purposes.

5. Benefits: The maneuver allows for repeated practice without the need for extended taxiing back to the runway, making it efficient for training scenarios. It aids in practicing techniques for different landing conditions, such as crosswinds or short-field landings.

6. Safety Considerations: Pilots must be aware of traffic within the airport environment and communicate their intentions with air traffic control when performing touch and go maneuvers, especially at busier airports. The rapid transition from landing to takeoff requires particular attention to aircraft speed, configuration, and control.

7. Variations: Sometimes, "stop and go" or "full stop" landings are practiced, where the aircraft comes to a complete stop on the runway before taking off again or after a brief pause.

Touch and goes are an essential part of developing a pilot's skill and confidence in handling various flight situations, ensuring they are prepared for different scenarios they might encounter during regular operations.