Definition
The shortest stopping distance an airplane can achieve on landing under the existing conditions, using full available braking, proper aerodynamic braking, and any other deceleration devices appropriate to the airplane (such as spoilers, speedbrakes, or reverse thrust). It assumes the airplane touches down at the correct speed, in the correct place, and that braking action is applied promptly and effectively.
Plain English
The shortest the airplane can possibly stop after landing, when everything is done right and all the brakes and slowing devices are used as effectively as possible.
Context Anchor
Used when judging whether a landing can still be completed safely from a stabilized approach, especially after a long touchdown, a high approach speed, or a short or wet runway.
Why Pilots Care
It determines whether the chosen runway is long enough for a safe landing and directly affects go/no-go decisions on short or contaminated surfaces.
Intuition Check
Maximum stopping capability does not mean a normal or comfortable stop. It means the airplane's best safe stopping effort, using all approved slowing methods while still keeping control.
Example Sentence 1
Touching down 1,000 feet long and 10 knots fast significantly eroded the airplane's maximum stopping capability on the short runway.
Example Sentence 2
A tailwind increases the ground speed at touchdown and therefore reduces the aircraft's maximum stopping capability.