What is the Shallowest Aircraft Glide Angle?

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The shallowest glide angle in aircraft varies based on the type of aircraft and conditions, with the best glide ratio occurring where lift-to-drag (L/D) is maximized. Gliders typically achieve a glide ratio of 40:1, covering 40 feet horizontally for every foot of altitude lost. In contrast, an F-16 fighter jet has a glide ratio of only 1:1, emphasizing the importance of ejection seats in emergencies. The discussion also touches on the complexities of interpreting glide angles and ratios, particularly in relation to angle of attack (AoA). Understanding these metrics is crucial for pilots in managing aircraft performance during gliding scenarios.
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What is the shallowest angle of glide in aircraft?
 
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What Do you mean? Yaw, roll or pitch? Aside from that, the answer depends on the plane and the conditions.
 
Do you mean the best glide ratio? Thats where the L/D is maximum. You can plot L/D vs AoA.
 
My first thought was that he meant AoA itself. Of course, then his question wouldn't make a whole lot of sense, but then again, it doesn't when you interpret it a glide ratio either... oh well.
 
Cyrus said:
Do you mean the best glide ratio? Thats where the L/D is maximum. You can plot L/D vs AoA.

This will, by definition, result in the shallowest glide angle.
 
A glider can typically cover 40ft for a drop of 1 ft.

An F-16 fighter jet will do only 1:1 (a good reason to have an ejection seat).
 
Dr Lots-o'watts said:
A glider can typically cover 40ft for a drop of 1 ft.

An F-16 fighter jet will do only 1:1 (a good reason to have an ejection seat).

If that. We used to watch the viper drivers do FO's into Pope in the early 90s, and they were something to see. We'd thought they simply pancake, but they were simply maintaining or building enough airspeed for a flare.

I have tons of military aviation experience, but I still marvel at http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_m0JCA/is_12_12/ai_n6100350/".

Ah... walking to the airfield. Thank God he didn't have to.
 
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