Plain English Meaning

Getting rid of the airplane's motion energy after touchdown so it can stop. Most of that energy turns into heat in the brakes and tires.

Full Definition

The process of converting an aircraft's kinetic energy (energy of motion) into other forms — primarily heat — in order to slow or stop the aircraft during the landing roll. On landing, kinetic energy is shed mainly through wheel braking (friction generating heat in the brakes and tires), aerodynamic drag, and, where available, reverse thrust or spoilers.

Context Anchor

Seen in landing performance discussions, especially when comparing , , braking, , and stopping distance.