What is the glide ratio for the aircraft with landing gear down and flaps retracted?

The glide ratio is a crucial performance metric that indicates how far an aircraft can travel horizontally for every unit of altitude lost. For the T-6B, when the landing gear is down and the flaps are retracted, the glide ratio reflects optimal aerodynamic efficiency under those conditions.

The correct answer, which indicates a glide ratio of 1.6 nautical miles for every 1,000 feet lost, is rooted in the design and aerodynamic characteristics of the T-6B when configured in this manner. This glide ratio allows pilots to estimate the distance they can cover during a glide in the event of an engine failure or other emergency scenarios. It serves as a critical piece of information for flight planning and emergency procedures.

Having this glide ratio aids pilots in understanding how to manage their descent effectively and choose suitable landing sites if the need arises, thereby enhancing safety and decision-making during flight. Other glide ratios presented may represent different configurations or conditions that are less efficient for gliding in the T-6B.