Has anyone out there who have flown on a 747 ever noticed the "ground effect cushion" upon landing? I flew on a 747 for the first time in March (a United -200), and the landing was very different than ones I have experienced before. I was expecting the usual "bump bump" on landing, but when we neared the ground, it seemed to float, then a bunch of tiny little bumps (the 16 wheels). Have you ever felt this?

This is probably what we call a "greaser", and the fact that the wheels are way below you makes it feel a whole lot different then many other planes. I flew in 747's about 5 or 6 times, and even if it wasn't a smooth landing you won't get a "stiff" thump but rather a more pronounced rattling and shaking. You'll never feel your stomach bounce up and down when a 747 is put down. Don't ask me why though. I just now this from flying this plane.

Dash8

I noticed this on the DC-10 and the L-1011 also. They always seem to make smooth landings. The stiffest landings I have experienced were on United DC-8s.

Bob Bradley
Richmond, VA

I did notice this also... well the landing was VERY cushioned. I mean, i felt one bump ( the back gear) and then the nose came down. This was a BA 100 or 200 I cant remember. But it felt like we landed with alot of grip- we didnt even bounce because we got such good grip, it was a cool feeling.