PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight
FAA · Retrieved 2026-09-05
Educational reference; original Owl summariesAERODYNAMICS
Ground effect
FLIGHT SCIENCE / CONCEPT REFERENCE
SCIENCEConditions & principles
Changes to the wing’s induced flow when flying close to a surface.
REFERENCE COVERAGE3 / 3 editorial sections
PROVENANCE1 linked source
LAST RETRIEVED2026-09-05
Editorial section coverage describes the article structure, not scientific validation or completeness.
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Source editions
PHAK · Chapter 5: Aerodynamics of Flight ↗Edition / snapshot: FAA-H-8083-25C, 2023Retrieved: 2026-09-05
Retrieval dates record when Owl obtained the data; they are not publication dates or proof that a specification is current. Where the edition contains only a snapshot date, the original publication date is not recorded.
01
Mechanism
The nearby surface changes downwash and the trailing vortex system. Induced drag is reduced for a given lift condition.
02
Aircraft response
An aircraft may remain airborne near the surface yet lack the same climb capability away from it. Landing float can also be affected.
03
Context & interpretation
Ground effect varies continuously with height relative to span and with configuration. It is not a fixed-height layer.
Sources & context
Educational explanation of physical mechanisms. Aircraft-specific procedures, limitations and current weather information are separate references.