What does 'LTE' refer to in helicopter operations?

'LTE' stands for Loss of Tail Rotor Effectiveness, which is a critical concept in helicopter operations. This phenomenon occurs when the effectiveness of the tail rotor is compromised, usually due to specific flight conditions or maneuvers. Factors that can contribute to LTE include high angles of attack, crosswind conditions, and certain speed ranges.

When a helicopter experiences LTE, it may lead to an uncontrollable yawing motion, causing the helicopter to rotate unexpectedly around its vertical axis. This can be particularly dangerous during hover or low-speed flight, where pilots are more susceptible to it. Understanding LTE is vital for pilots as it can help them recognize the signs of impending loss of control and take appropriate corrective actions to mitigate the risk.

In contrast, the other choices do not align with the standard definition associated with helicopter operations. Limited Tail Envelope is not a recognized term in this context, Low Torque Encounter is not a defined operational term within helicopter flight training, and Landing Terrain Evaluation refers to assessing ground conditions for a safe landing, which is unrelated to the specific aerodynamic phenomenon of LTE.