How does an airplane react to ground effect during takeoff?

During takeoff, an airplane experiences ground effect, which occurs when it is flying close to the surface of the Earth. This phenomenon leads to a slight increase in lift due to the compression of air between the wings and the ground. When an aircraft is within approximately one wingspan of the surface, the airflow patterns change, resulting in reduced induced drag and an enhanced effective angle of attack for the wings. This combination causes the airplane to gain a slight increase in lift compared to what it would experience at higher altitudes, where ground effect is not a factor.

This lift increase can allow the aircraft to become airborne at a lower airspeed or help with a smoother takeoff. Understanding this behavior is essential for pilots as it influences takeoff and landing characteristics. Recognizing the role of ground effect can also enhance safety during these critical phases of flight, as the pilot needs to be aware of how the aircraft may respond differently when close to the ground compared to cruising altitude.