What is a "flare" in the context of aircraft landings?

A "flare" refers to a maneuver performed during the landing phase of flight, specifically when the aircraft is about to touch down. This technique involves the pilot raising the nose of the aircraft just before landing to reduce the descent rate and decrease the speed at which the aircraft contacts the runway. This action helps to ensure a smoother landing, minimizing the impact and allowing for better control as the aircraft touches down.

The flare is crucial because it helps transition from horizontal flight to a controlled landing attitude, making it easier to touch down on the main wheels first, which is important for aircraft stability and safety during landing. While the other options touch on different aspects of flight operations, none accurately describe the flare's role in facilitating a soft and safe landing.