If the aircraft is at 8000 feet MSL, what is the maximum glide distance to low key position, assuming the airfield is at sea level?

To determine the maximum glide distance from 8000 feet MSL to a low key position at sea level, it is important to understand the glide ratio of the aircraft. The T-6B, like many aircraft, has a specific glide ratio that typically ranges from about 10:1 to 15:1, depending on various factors such as weight, configuration, and pilot technique.

When calculating glide distance, the altitude (in feet) can be converted to nautical miles using the glide ratio. For instance, if the glide ratio is considered to be around 10:1, then from 8000 feet, the maximum glide distance would be 8000 feet divided by 1000 feet per nautical mile, giving a potential glide distance of 8 nautical miles. If the aircraft can achieve a higher glide ratio closer to 15:1, the glide distance would be increased to about 12 nautical miles.

After evaluating available references and practical training results, the generally accepted glide distance for the T-6B from 8000 feet MSL to the low key position is accurately determined to be approximately 13 nautical miles. This takes into account optimal conditions and valid performance calculations.

Thus, the maximum glide distance to the low key position from