The aerodynamic condition created when an aircraft flies very close to the ground or water surface, typically within one wingspan's distance. The proximity to the surface restricts the formation of wingtip vortices and alters the airflow, significantly reducing induced drag and increasing lift. Pilots must account for this effect during landing, as it can cause the aircraft to float down the runway.
Heard on the job
Watch your airspeed on short final, or the wing in ground effect will have you floating right past the touchdown zone.
Also heard as
- ground effect