Why Planes Descend Before Landing? | YESODI

Why Planes Descend Before Landing?

By Aviation Explained

Aviation Explained September 21, 2026

Commercial jets don't just point the nose down and drop. Pilots plan a gentle 3 degree glide slope miles out, gradually losing altitude while staying at a safe descent rate. It's physics plus comfort: steep descents waste fuel, stress the structure, and make passengers nauseous.

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