Plain English Meaning

The tires slip on a thin slick film on the runway, even though there is barely any water. It happens most often on smooth, rubber-stained sections of the runway and can occur at quite low speeds.

Full Definition

A loss of tire-to-runway friction that occurs when a thin film of water, oil, rubber deposits, or other contaminant on a smooth runway surface prevents the tire from making direct contact with the pavement. Unlike dynamic hydroplaning, viscous hydroplaning can occur at much lower speeds and with only a very thin layer of moisture, especially on smooth or rubber-coated surfaces such as touchdown zones.

Context Anchor

Encountered when landing, braking, taxiing, or aborting a on a smooth damp runway, especially where rubber deposits, oil, or dust make the slick.