Vertical takeoff and horizontal landing (VTHL) is an operational mode where a spacecraft or aircraft ascends vertically under rocket power but returns to earth gliding like a conventional airplane to land on a runway. The Space Shuttle is the most famous example of a VTHL vehicle.
Heard on the job
The new spaceplane design uses a VTHL profile to save weight on landing gear during launch.
Related terms
VTOL
Vertical takeoff and landing refers to aircraft that can hover, take off, and land straight down.
VTVL
This acronym describes a vehicle that lifts off straight up and returns to the ground in the same upright orientation.
SSTO
A single-stage-to-orbit vehicle that reaches space without dropping hardware.