Viscous hydroplaning is more likely to occur on which type of runway surface?

Viscous hydroplaning is more likely to occur on which type of runway surface?

• A. Rough and textured
• B. Wet but uneven
• C. Dry and smooth
• D. Smooth surface covered with a thin layer of water

Answer: (D)

Viscous hydroplaning occurs when an aircraft's tires lose contact with the runway surface due to a thin layer of water, leading to a reduction in friction. When a smooth surface is covered with a thin layer of water, the water film is unable to be sufficiently displaced by the tires, allowing for a quick buildup of pressure beneath the tires. This pressure often leads to a complete loss of traction and control. A smooth surface enhances the conditions for viscous hydroplaning because it minimizes the tire's ability to penetrate through the water and reach the runway, increasing the likelihood of hydroplaning. On such surfaces, even a small amount of water can create a situation where the tires cannot effectively grip the runway. In contrast, rough and textured surfaces can aid in water drainage, providing better grip and reducing the chances of hydroplaning. Similarly, uneven surfaces or dry surfaces present fewer risks for hydroplaning, as they either facilitate better tire contact or are not conducive to the formation of a continuous layer of water that can induce hydroplaning.

Viscous hydroplaning occurs when an aircraft's tires lose contact with the runway surface due to a thin layer of water, leading to a reduction in friction. When a smooth surface is covered with a thin layer of water, the water film is unable to be sufficiently displaced by the tires, allowing for a quick buildup of pressure beneath the tires. This pressure often leads to a complete loss of traction and control.

A smooth surface enhances the conditions for viscous hydroplaning because it minimizes the tire's ability to penetrate through the water and reach the runway, increasing the likelihood of hydroplaning. On such surfaces, even a small amount of water can create a situation where the tires cannot effectively grip the runway.

In contrast, rough and textured surfaces can aid in water drainage, providing better grip and reducing the chances of hydroplaning. Similarly, uneven surfaces or dry surfaces present fewer risks for hydroplaning, as they either facilitate better tire contact or are not conducive to the formation of a continuous layer of water that can induce hydroplaning.