Glide Ratio Calculator:
Enter the values of horizontal distance traveled, D(m) and vertical distance descended, A(m) to determine the value of Glide Ratio, G(m).
Glide Ratio Formula:
The glide ratio (GLR) is an essential concept in aviation, representing the efficiency of an aircraft’s flight path when it is gliding without engine power. It is the ratio of the horizontal distance traveled by an aircraft to the vertical distance it descends. The glide ratio is an important parameter for gliders, sailplanes, and other unpowered flight systems, as it determines how far an aircraft can travel horizontally for every meter of altitude lost.
A higher glide ratio indicates a more efficient glider, meaning it can travel farther with less altitude loss. The glide ratio depends on factors such as the aircraft’s aerodynamics, weight, and environmental conditions like wind and air density.
It is commonly expressed as a number like “L:1,” where L represents the horizontal distance, and 1 represents the vertical distance. For example, a glide ratio of 15:1 means the aircraft will travel 15 meters horizontally for every meter of altitude lost.
Glide Ratio, G(m) in metres equals the horizontal distance traveled, D(m) in metres divided by the vertical distance descended, A(m) in metres.
Glide Ratio, G(m) = D(m) / A(m)
G(m) = glide ratio in metres, m.
D(m) = horizontal distance in metres, m.
A(m) = vertical distance in metres, m.
Glide Ratio Calculation:
- A glider flies and covers a horizontal distance of 600 metres while descending 50 metres. Calculate the glide ratio.
Given: D(m) = 600m, A(m) = 50m
Glide Ratio, G(m) = D(m) / A(m)
G(m) = 600 / 50
G(m) = 12m.
- A glider has a glide ratio of 10:1. If the glider descends 200 meters, calculate the horizontal distance traveled.
Given: G(m) = 10:1, A(m) = 200m
Glide Ratio, G(m) = D(m) / A(m)
D(m) = G(m) * A(m)
D(m) = 10 * 200
D(m) = 2000m.