BOEING

Flight Operations REVIEW

A MESSAGE TO FLIGHT CREWS FROM THE BOEING COMMERCIAL AIRPLANE GROUP

727-01 737-01 747-01 757-01 767-01 March 14, 1986 THE IMPORTANCE OF PROPER ROTATION TECHNIQUE We frequently see the result of improper takeoff rotation technique in reports of aft body contact with the runway or significantly increased takeoff distance. This article discusses the elements of a properly executed takeoff rotation maneuver and examines possible consequences of improper rotation techniques.

ROTATION TECHNIQUE For all Boeing airplanes a properly executed takeoff rotation includes the following fundamental, but essential, elements. Rotation is initiated at VR and is accomplished as a smooth, continuous maneuver to target pitch attitude. Rotation rate is typically 2-3 degrees per second and in most cases should not exceed 3 degrees per second. To achieve desired performance, takeoff rotation must be accomplished with a reasonable degree of precision. However, adequate margins are provided to allow for slight variations in technique. Typically, pitch attitude at liftoff is about 2 to 4 degrees less than the attitude at which ground contact occurs. The point of minimum tail clearance is slightly AFTER liftoff as shown below. Continuing a smooth rotation to target pitch attitude will assure target airspeed and proper takeoff flight path are attained while providing adequate ground clearance.

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RESULTS OF IMPROPER ROTATION TECHNIQUES Early and/or Rapid Rotation The amount of tail clearance achieved is a function of airspeed at rotation and rate of rotation. Early rotation, even at the proper rate, increases pitch attitude at liftoff approximately 1 degree for each 5 knots prior to VR. Similarly, a rapid rotation of 1 to 2 degrees per second above normal increases liftoff attitude by 1 degree. A degree increase in liftoff pitch attitude reduces tail clearance by up to two feet (depending on airplane model). Additionally, rapid rotation further reduces tail clearance due to decreasing vertical velocity of the airplane and may result in ground contact prior to liftoff. Late, Slow, or Underrotation Any delay in initiating rotation after VR will increase ground roll distance. For typical operating conditions the increase in distance will be approximately 250 feet for each second of delay. Slow rotation also increases takeoff distance. For example, rotating at half the correct rate will increase takeoff distance required by approximately 500 feet. Similarly if normal rotation occurs, but pitch attitude is not increased beyond the attitude that exists at liftoff (well below the target attitude), the takeoff distance would increase by approximately 1,000 feet. Rotation technique is a very important part of the overall takeoff maneuver. A smooth and continuous rotation at the proper rate and airspeed to target pitch altitude helps ensure adequate tail clearance and proper takeoff flight path.

BOEING PUBLISHES THE "FLIGHT OPERATIONS REVIEW' FOR OPERATORS AND THEIR FLIGHT CREWS IN ORDER TO PROVIDE ADVISORY INFORMATION RELATED TO FLIGHT OPERATIONS. ALL INFORMATION IN THE "FLIGHT OPERATIONS REVIEW' IS CONSIDERED ACCURATE. HOWEVER. IT IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE OR SUPERCEDE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN APPROVED OPERATING DOCUMENTATION.