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Revolutionising Aircraft Landing Techniques: The Advantages of the The Jacobson Flare:
The Jacobson Flare is a revolutionary, innovative and practical approach to aircraft landing training that transforms the execution of this critical manoeuvre. Traditionally, landing an airplane has been considered an art form, requiring years of experience to master.
However, the Jacobson Flare redefines this perception by introducing a logical, structured, and universally applicable technique. At once, this simplifies the landing process for pilots of all skill levels and aircraft types.
The heart of the matter
At its core, the Jacobson Flare provides a clear and quantifiable method for performing the landing flare manoeuvre. The technique revolves around the concept of a “longitudinal flare cutoff point” on the runway, which serves as a visual reference for the pilot.
Pilots can now determine the precise moment to initiate the flare, reducing reliance on subjective judgment, perception, and experience.This approach transforms landing into a skill that can be taught and learned systematically, enhancing the confidence of both novice and experienced pilots.
The advantages
One of the key advantages of the Jacobson Flare is its ability to minimise the impact of variable factors that traditionally complicate the landing process. For instance, runway slopes, widths, flap settings, and approach angles often create visual illusions that can affect a pilot’s perception of height and distance. The Jacobson Flare mitigates these challenges by providing a fixed visual reference—the flare cutoff point—that remains consistent regardless of these variables. This ensures a predictable and accurate landing, even in diverse conditions.
The technique also offers significant benefits in terms of standardisation and training. By providing a universal method for landing, the Jacobson Flare facilitates consistent practices across aviation organisations. This standardisation is particularly valuable in assessing evidence-based competency standards, which are increasingly vital in modern aviation.
Furthermore, the technique simplifies both elementary and advanced pilot training, reducing the time and costs associated with developing landing skills. Pilots can quickly adapt the method to different aircraft types, making it a portable and versatile tool throughout their careers.
Experienced pilots also benefit from the Jacobson Flare, especially when returning to flying after a period of leave or non-flying duties. The visual flare fix complements their existing skills, enabling them to achieve greater consistency in their landings. This consistency has practical implications, such as minimising runway occupancy times, optimising traffic flow, and reducing wear and tear on aircraft tires, brakes, and undercarriages. These improvements contribute to enhanced operational efficiency and reduced maintenance costs.
The safety benefits
Safety is another critical advantage of the Jacobson Flare. By eliminating the need for guesswork and relying on a visible and predictable approach, the technique significantly reduces the likelihood of landing accidents. The risk of damage or loss of aircraft, or the injury (or worse) to their pilots and passengers, and the ensuing insurance claims, can be minimised. Pilots can execute the entire approach and landing manoeuvre with greater confidence and precision, enhancing overall flight safety.
Since its introduction in 1985, the Jacobson Flare has been adopted by hundreds of civil and military pilots across various aircraft types, from sailplanes and light airplanes to large jet transports. Its universal application and adaptability make it a valuable tool for the aviation industry. By addressing the differences between aircraft while embracing their similarities, the Jacobson Flare provides a comprehensive yet practical system of flight training that meets diverse operational requirements.
In conclusion
The Jacobson Flare is a groundbreaking technique that has redefined the art of landing an airplane. Its logical, consistent, and universal approach simplifies training, enhances safety, and improves operational efficiency. By providing a clear visual guide for pilots, the Jacobson Flare ensures predictable and precise landings, making it an indispensable tool for modern aviation. Its widespread adoption is a testament to its effectiveness and the significant benefits it offers to pilots and the industry as a whole.
Wishing you many safe landings
Captain David M Jacobson FRAeS MAP
Would you care to experience that unsurpassed sense of accomplishment, derived from executing consistently beautiful landings, more often?
For starters, Download the FREE Jacobson Flare LITE pdf , our no fuss/no frills introduction. Here we demonstrate, step by step, the application of the Jacobson Flare on a typical grass airstrip at Porepunkah, YPOK.
We invite you to browse the consistently positive comments on our Testimonials page. Many pilots, of all levels of experience, have downloaded our Apps. Read about their own experiences with the Jacobson Flare technique and the App.
Then download the complete Jacobson Flare ESSENTIAL App – for iOS. You’re already possibly paying $300+/hour to hire an aeroplane: You’ll recover the cost of the app, in just ONE LESS-NEEDED CIRCUIT. Moreover, you’ll have an invaluable reference tool, throughout your entire life in aviation.
Download the Jacobson Flare ESSENTIAL App for iOS devices now.
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offering a convenient way of staying abreast of our latest blogs.
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