Take-off Runway Available (TORA) is a crucial term in aviation that refers to the length of the runway that is available for an aircraft to accelerate and become airborne. It is a key factor in determining whether an aircraft can safely take off from a particular runway based on its performance capabilities and the conditions at the airport. TORA takes into account various factors such as runway length, elevation, slope, temperature, wind, and aircraft characteristics.
When pilots plan for takeoff, they need to consider the TORA to ensure that their aircraft can safely take off and clear any obstacles within the required distance. Aircraft performance calculations, such as takeoff distance and acceleration, are based on the TORA to determine if the aircraft can safely complete its takeoff roll and achieve the necessary speed for lift-off.
In addition to TORA, there are other related terms that are essential to understand in the context of aircraft operations:
Take-off Distance Available (TODA)
Take-off Distance Available (TODA) is the total length of the runway that is available for a particular aircraft to accelerate, take off and climb to a specified height. It includes the TORA plus any clearway or stopway that may be present. Clearway is an area beyond the runway that is kept free of obstacles to enhance the aircraft’s safety during takeoff. Stopway, on the other hand, is an area beyond the runway that can be used by an aircraft to decelerate and stop in the event of an aborted takeoff.
The TODA is essential for aircraft performance calculations, emergency procedures, and regulatory compliance. Pilots need to ensure that the available distance, including any clearway or stopway, is sufficient for their aircraft to safely take off and climb to the required height, especially in cases where the runway length may be limited.
Landing Distance Available (LDA)
Landing Distance Available (LDA) is the length of the runway that is available for an aircraft to land and come to a complete stop. It accounts for the TORA minus any clearway or stopway. The LDA is crucial for pilots to determine if their aircraft can safely land and decelerate within the given distance, considering factors such as runway length, touchdown point, elevation, slope, wind, and aircraft characteristics.
Pilots rely on the LDA during approach and landing to ensure that their aircraft can safely touchdown, decelerate, and stop within the available runway length. It is vital for maintaining aircraft control and ensuring passenger safety.
To summarize, the TORA, TODA, and LDA are essential terms in aviation that determine the available distance for an aircraft to safely take off, climb to a specified height, and land. Pilots and aircraft performance engineers rely on these calculations to ensure safe and efficient operations. Understanding these terms is crucial for pilots, air traffic controllers, and aviation professionals involved in airport planning and operations.
For more information on aviation terms and calculations, you can visit the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) website, where you can find detailed resources and guidelines.