minger said:I just looked up some quick figures. A typical 747-400 has a maximum take-off weight of 875,000 lb; while the thrust it's engines produce is around 60,000 lb.
So you see...
Vertical takeoff (VTO) refers to the ability of an aircraft to take off and land vertically, without the need for a runway. Horizontal takeoff (HTO) is the traditional method of takeoff where an aircraft uses a runway to gain enough speed and lift to take off.
It depends on the specific aircraft and its purpose. Generally, vertical takeoff is more efficient for military aircraft that need to operate in small or remote areas. Horizontal takeoff is more efficient for commercial airliners and larger aircraft that need to transport a large number of passengers or cargo.
Vertical takeoff eliminates the need for a runway, allowing an aircraft to take off and land in smaller or more confined spaces. This can be useful for military operations or emergency situations. It also allows for greater flexibility in flight paths and can reduce travel time.
Vertical takeoff requires more energy and fuel, making it less efficient for larger aircraft. It also requires more advanced technology and specialized training for pilots. Additionally, vertical takeoff can be more expensive and may not be suitable for all types of aircraft.
Yes, there are aircraft that have the ability to perform both vertical and horizontal takeoff. These aircraft, known as VTOL (vertical takeoff and landing) or STOL (short takeoff and landing) aircraft, can take off vertically and then transition to horizontal flight. This allows for greater flexibility and efficiency in flight operations.