Plane landing NYT Crossword Clue

Plane landing NYT Crossword Clue

The correct answer and explanation is:

The correct answer to the New York Times crossword clue “Plane landing” is likely “touchdown.”

Explanation:

1. Clue Definition:
   • The clue “Plane landing” refers to the action of an aircraft coming down and making contact with the ground after flight. In aviation, the process of landing is often referred to as a “touchdown,” which is the moment when the wheels of the plane first touch the runway.
2. Word Breakdown:
   • The term “touchdown” can be broken down into two parts:
     • “Touch”: This indicates the physical contact between the plane and the surface, i.e., the runway.
     • “Down”: This refers to the movement of the plane descending toward the ground. When the plane lands, it is coming down from the sky.
3. Other Meanings:
   • Touchdown is also a term used in American football, where it refers to the act of a player carrying the ball into the opponent’s end zone and scoring points. However, in the context of the clue, “plane landing,” it’s clear that the definition is related to aviation, making “touchdown” the best fit.
4. Clue Type:
   • This clue is straightforward and descriptive. It’s a direct definition clue where the answer can be inferred from the description of the event, in this case, a plane’s landing.
5. Usage in a Sentence:
   • “The pilot announced that we would be making a touchdown in about ten minutes.”
   • “The plane’s touchdown was smooth and without incident.”

In conclusion, the answer “touchdown” fits both the definition of a plane’s landing and the typical structure of a New York Times crossword clue, making it the most appropriate answer.