Plain English Meaning

Ground that gives way under the wheels — like grass, dirt, sand, or snow — instead of being firm like pavement. The wheels sink in slightly and drag, which makes the airplane harder to accelerate and stop.

Full Definition

A runway or takeoff/landing area whose surface is composed of material that yields under the weight of the aircraft, creating significant rolling resistance and degrading takeoff and landing performance. Typical soft surfaces include grass, dirt, sand, mud, and snow.

Context Anchor

Encountered during soft-field takeoff, landing, , and discussions, especially when operating from grass strips, wet fields, sandy , or snow-covered surfaces.