thrustreversed

Thrust reversal, or thrustreversal, is a mechanism used on many aircraft engines to redirect some of the engine’s thrust forward, creating a braking force rather than continuing to push the aircraft backward. It is most commonly employed during landing or in a rejected takeoff, where additional deceleration helps shorten stopping distances and reduce wear on wheel brakes.

Most modern civil thrust reversers are installed in the engine nacelle and act on the bypass airflow of a turbofan or turbojet. When deployed, a portion of the bypass air is redirected forward instead of rearward. This forward-directed flow creates a counteracting force that slows the aircraft. The core exhaust generally remains directed rearward, so the net thrust is reduced rather than reversed entirely.

There are two broad design families. Cascade-type reversers use blocker doors and a fixed set of deflector vanes (cascades) in the nacelle to turn bypass air forward. Translating-sleeve or bucket-type reversers use a moveable sleeve or doors that reconfigure the duct to direct airflow forward. Both designs can be actuated by hydraulic or electric systems and are typically interlocked to prevent deployment at unsafe speeds or in flight.

Operationally, thrust reversers are activated after touchdown and are normally used on the ground during the landing rollout or in a rejected takeoff when approved by procedures. They are generally inhibited during flight and are stowed before taxiing or takeoff. Reversers improve deceleration but introduce noise, potential debris hazards, and maintenance considerations, and their effectiveness depends on runway conditions and engine power.

In summary, thrust reversal is a widely used but carefully controlled method to enhance aircraft deceleration by redirecting engine thrust forward.