What Is Turnaround Time? Definition & Meaning in Aviation
Turnaround time is the time an aircraft spends on the ground between landing and its next departure.
In plain language
In that time passengers leave, the aircraft is cleaned, refuelled, catered and loaded, and new passengers board. A short turnaround keeps an airline efficient but leaves little room to absorb delays.
Example
A narrow-body on a busy domestic route may be turned around in roughly 40 to 60 minutes.
Why it matters
Short turnarounds keep airlines efficient but spread delays: a late arrival cuts into the time to clean, refuel and board the next flight. That is why a small delay in the morning can grow during the day.