Hydroplaning

Hydroplaning (aquaplaning) occurs when a layer of water builds up between an aircraft's tires and the runway surface, causing the tires to lose contact with the pavement. This dramatically reduces braking effectiveness and directional control — the aircraft essentially slides on a film of water.

• Dynamic hydroplaning: tire rides on a water film — critical speed (knots) ≈ 9 × √(tire pressure in psi)
• Viscous hydroplaning: thin film on smooth, painted, or rubber-contaminated surfaces — occurs at lower speeds
• Reverted rubber hydroplaning: locked wheel melts rubber which seals water underneath — skid marks are white
• Grooved runways significantly reduce hydroplaning risk
• Pilots should avoid heavy braking on flooded runways and use aerodynamic braking (spoilers, thrust reversers)