FAA Airline Transport Pilot (ATM)Aircraft Performance and Weight and BalanceMedium
A dispatcher is computing the maximum allowable landing weight for a turbojet transport at the destination airport under 14 CFR Part 121. The effective runway length is 9,000 feet. Per the destination airport landing distance rule, what is the maximum landing distance the airplane's performance data may show for dispatch?
- A4,500 feet
- B6,000 feet
- C5,400 feet
- D7,650 feet
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. 5,400 feet
Under the Part 121 destination airport 'landing 60% rule,' the airplane's actual demonstrated landing distance may not exceed 60% of the effective runway length. 9,000 ft × 0.60 = 5,400 ft.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. This uses a 50% factor, which is not the certified rule.
- B. This is roughly 67%, not the required 60%.
- D. This uses an 85% factor, which does not apply to destination dispatch planning.
60% Landing Distance Rule
For turbojets under Part 121, dispatch landing distance at the destination must not exceed 60% of the effective (usable) runway length.
- Applies at destination for turbojets
- 60% factor built in for safety margin
- Alternate airport typically requires a different (less restrictive) margin
Memory trick: Six-Zero for the destination — leave 40% runway in reserve.