Could a Plane Land Vertically in a Strong Wind?

Could a plane really perform a vertical landing in strong winds? This question has sparked discussions in flight communities and has been a subject of YouTube contests. The contests showcase the ability of aircraft to land using the shortest possible distance, sometimes even in just 20 feet. These short take-off and landing (STOL) aircraft demonstrate impressive capability but what about vertical landings?

Theoretically Possible

Theoretically, a plane could land vertically, but it would depend on several factors. If the airspeed of the aircraft is ideal for landing, and this airspeed is equal to the headwind groundspeed, the theoretical equation would have the head speed equal to zero. This would enable a controlled descent that is essentially vertical. However, the headwind must be steady, not gusty. Additionally, such a feat would be best suited for a low-speed aircraft like a gyrocopter, due to its slow-moving nature.

Vertical Landing in Practice

I have personally experienced vertical landings in a Blanik L-13 sailplane glider with a high glide ratio, typically operated in the Pensacola region where winds can often exceed 25 knots. The stall speed on the Blanik is approximately 28 knots, and a little less if the flaps are extended. Flying out of Coastal Airport (83J), the aircraft was able to locate above the downwind end of the runway and perform a vertical descent on several occasions. It was necessary to lower the nose occasionally as glider was being pushed away from the runway. This experience was quite unique, especially for some of my new students who were new to flying a glider.

Historical Examples of Vertical Landings

My father enjoyed testing aircraft in strong winds. He owned a J-3 and on windy days, he would take off and climb to pattern altitude before reaching the end of the runway. He would then throttle back and let the winds push him back to the approach end of the runway, landing exactly where he had taken off from. He found this to be a fun and practical way to show the effect of wind on aircraft behavior.

Practical Considerations and Risks

While theoretically possible, practical considerations and risks come into play. If the aircraft is not in the correct position, there can be significant challenges. For example, if the plane is a tail-dragger (a plane with a tail wheel), once it touches the ground, it can become more hazardous. Small aircraft like the 1927 Travelaire biplane can achieve vertical landings, often taking off and landing at similar speeds. The experience for the pilot and passengers during such a maneuver can be quite intense, moving over the runway crabbing at nearly 45 degrees.

A commercial airliner, due to its much higher landing speed (around 150 mph), would never be able to perform such a maneuver. Instead, they take off and land using rotation to lift off the ground. These maneuvers typically start with a speed around 150 mph, allowing the aircraft to lift vertically before the wings take over and provide lift.

Conclusion

While a plane can theoretically land vertically in strong winds, the practical challenges and risks make it an unlikely scenario outside of controlled conditions and specific aircraft types. For most conventional airplanes, the primary method for overcoming strong winds is through controlled rotation during takeoff and landing.