Final answer:
Thrust reversers are primarily used during landing to help slow the aircraft and during an aborted takeoff to bring the aircraft to a stop. They are not used during cruise or taxiing.
Step-by-step explanation:
Thrust reversers on aircraft are crucial components that contribute to the deceleration of an aircraft upon landing. The primary instances where thrust reversers would be useful are:
- Landing: They are deployed to help slow down the aircraft more effectively after touchdown, reducing the wear on brakes and enabling the aircraft to come to a stop within a shorter distance.
- Takeoff: In the rare case of an aborted takeoff, thrust reversers can be engaged to help stop the aircraft before it reaches the end of the runway, but they are not used during a normal takeoff.
Thrust reversers are not typically used during cruise, as the engines are set to provide the required thrust to maintain speed and altitude, nor are they used during taxiing, where engine power is kept to a minimum and standard braking systems are sufficient.