The term "crash landing" refers to an unplanned and rough landing of an aircraft or spacecraft. Its spelling contains two syllables, with the first syllable represented by the phonetic symbol /kræʃ/ and the second by /ˈlændɪŋ/. The "c" in "crash" is pronounced as /k/ while the "a" is pronounced as /æ/. The "sh" sound is indicated by the phonetic symbol /ʃ/. The final syllable -"landing"- is pronounced as /ˈlændɪŋ/ with the "a" pronounced as /æ/ again and the emphasis on the second syllable.
The term "crash landing" refers to an unplanned and usually emergency landing of an aircraft that results in a forceful impact upon landing. It occurs when an aircraft, regardless of its size or type, cannot safely complete a normal landing due to various factors. These factors may include technical malfunctions, fuel exhaustion, adverse weather conditions, or pilot error.
During a crash landing, the aircraft typically descends rapidly and impacts the ground with significant force. This may lead to structural damage, such as the deformation or collapse of the aircraft's landing gear, fuselage, wings, or other crucial parts. As a result, crash landings are often accompanied by a sudden jolt or impact, which can cause severe injuries or even fatalities to passengers and crew members.
In order to mitigate the impact and increase chances of survival, pilots usually strive to execute controlled crash landings. This involves selecting the most suitable landing site available, such as an open field or body of water, and adopting specific techniques to minimize the impact upon touchdown. Despite the inherent danger, successful crash landings have occurred in the past, thanks to the skill and quick thinking of pilots in dire situations.
Due to their unpredictable and hazardous nature, crash landings are a cause for concern in aviation safety. Regulatory bodies, aircraft manufacturers, and flight crews invest significant efforts to enhance safety measures, improve aircraft designs, and optimize emergency procedures to prevent or mitigate the consequences of crash landings.
The term "crash landing" combines two words, "crash" and "landing", to describe a type of emergency landing of an aircraft.
The word "crash" originated in the late 14th century from the Middle English word "crasche", which means a violent collision or impact. It further derives from the Old French word "crascher", meaning to break or dash to pieces. The term has evolved to describe any sudden and forceful impact or collision, particularly related to accidents or disasters.
The word "landing" dates back to the 14th century and comes from the Old English word "landian", which means to bring to land or make landfall. It ultimately traces its roots to the Proto-Germanic word "landōną", meaning to go ashore.