How Fast Is Airliner Landing?

Airliners touch down at 70 m/s — about 250 km/h. The 747's stall speed is just slightly below this, which is why landings demand precision: any slower and the wing fails to provide lift. Reverse thrust provides about half the braking force.

Aircraft tyres only last about 200 landings before needing replacement — each touchdown produces a small puff of smoke as rubber instantly heats and abrades.

• Same as a tennis serve
• Stall speed sits just below