Can an Airliner Land on Grass? Exploring the Feasibility and Risks

Landings on grass runways are not uncommon, particularly in emergencies. Modern airliners, with their high-pressure tires, may cut deep ruts into anything softer than high-strength concrete, but under certain conditions, they can indeed touch down. This article explores the feasibility of airliners landing on grass runways and the risks involved.

Can Modern Airliners Land on Grass?

Immensely. Airplanes, including large commercial aircraft, can and do land on grass runways. In the United States alone, there are thousands of grass runways. Even makeshift runways, such as those created for experimental purposes, have successfully accommodated aircraft. Grass runways can be used as a last resort, particularly in emergencies. However, their use is dependent on several factors including the aircraft’s landing gear, runway length, and width.

Practical Considerations for Landing on Grass

While the feasibility exists, the practical aspects of landing on a grass runway present significant challenges. The primary concern is the potential damage to the landing gear. Modern airliners have high-pressure tires specifically designed to withstand the rigors of paved runways. These tires, although capable of withstanding a certain amount of pressure, may still cut into soft surfaces like grass, potentially leading to gear damage.

The weight of the aircraft plays a crucial role. For example, a fully loaded 747 can weigh up to 700,000 lbs, and even more if it's being launched. Such weight requires a very strong surface to prevent the aircraft from sinking into the ground. Under normal conditions, airports have runways made of steel-reinforced concrete, which can support these massive weights. However, grass cannot support such heavy loads, leading to significant risks of damage to the landing gear and the aircraft itself.

Risks and Limitations

One of the main risks associated with landing on grass is the potential for the aircraft to become stuck. The nose wheel, in particular, can tip forward or even buckle if the surface is uneven. This can result in the aircraft becoming immobile and inoperable, as was seen in the case of a heavy aircraft attempting a grass landing and failing to take off again. In such scenarios, alternative emergency landing sites like water or military airfields are typically preferred for their forgiving surfaces.

In an emergency situation, such as a water landing, the risks are even higher. Heavy aircraft like 747 models are too heavy for grass and would likely cause significant damage if attempting a grass landing. Therefore, rerouting to a properly equipped airfield, which can include military airfields, is often the recommended course of action.

Conclusion

While airliners can land on grass runways in emergencies, the feasibility and risks associated with such landings make them a last resort. The landing gear, runway length and width, and the aircraft's weight all play critical roles in determining whether a grass landing is possible and safe. In most cases, rerouting to a more appropriate landing site, such as a military airfield or a water landing, is the safest option. As such, understanding the limitations and risks is crucial for both pilots and aviation authorities.

For those involved in aviation, whether as pilots, crew, or aviation enthusiasts, knowing the feasibility and potential risks of landing on grass runways is essential. This knowledge can help in making informed decisions in emergency situations and in improving overall aviation safety.