Are thrust reversers considered in the stopping distance calculation before reaching V1?

In the context of aircraft performance calculations, V1 is defined as the maximum speed at which a pilot can safely abort the takeoff. The stopping distance before reaching V1 is typically calculated with the assumption that only the aircraft's braking system will be used to stop the aircraft in the event of an aborted takeoff.

Thrust reversers are not considered in the calculations for stopping distance prior to reaching V1. This is because, during this phase of takeoff, the aircraft is still accelerating, and the use of thrust reversers is not initiated until after V1 if an abort is decided. Therefore, stopping distance calculations are conservative, focusing solely on the effectiveness of the brakes to ensure safety margins are maintained.

Thus, the correct understanding is anchored in the safety practices of flight operations, highlighting the importance of relying on brake power alone before reaching V1 to ensure safe operation under all conditions.