Quick Facts
- Type
- Aerodynamic Force
- Definition
- The forward force produced by an aircraft's engines
- Used By
- Pilots, Engineers
Definition#
Thrust is the force generated by an aircraft's propulsion system (jet engine, propeller, etc.) that acts forward along the flight path. It is produced by accelerating a mass of air rearward.
Why It Matters Operationally#
In level flight, thrust equals drag. Excess thrust allows climb; insufficient thrust causes descent. Available thrust decreases with altitude and temperature (density altitude).
Related Guides#
- How Jet Engines Work (Turbofan vs Turboprop)
- How Airplanes Fly — The Complete Aviation Fundamentals Guide
- Induced vs Parasite Drag
Related Terms#
See Also
Used in
- How Airplanes Fly — The Complete Aviation Fundamentals Guideguide
- How Jet Engines Work (Turbofan vs Turboprop)guide
- Induced vs Parasite Dragguide
- Density Altitude Explainedguide
- Aviation Weather Explained — The Complete Operational Guideguide
- Control Surfaces Explained (Ailerons, Rudder, Elevator)guide
- What Is a Stall?guide