What is the purpose of a landing flare?

The purpose of a landing flare is to transition from the aircraft's descent profile into a landing attitude, which is crucial for a safe touchdown. During the landing flare, the pilot pulls back slightly on the control stick or yoke to raise the nose of the aircraft. This action decreases the descent rate and allows the main wheels to touch down first, which helps to ensure a smooth landing and minimizes the risk of a hard impact. The flare is typically executed at a certain altitude above the runway and is a critical phase of the landing process that requires precision and timing.

This action not only helps in achieving a safe landing but also aids in reducing the likelihood of damaging the aircraft's landing gear or structure. The flare must be executed properly to allow for a controlled descent and to position the aircraft correctly for touchdown.