Quote Originally Posted by Xan
What I was getting at with the progressive conveyor was that the plane wouldn't take off because it was "moving" forward on the conveyor like you guys are saying. The way I've always heard this question stated is that there is NO movement in relation to the plane. It NEVER builds any speed other than windspeed.
Ok, what do you suppose is keeping the airplane stationary on the conveyor?

Quote Originally Posted by Xan
And if we are using a progressive conveyor belt that will ALWAYS match the amount of thrust put out, then a jet aircraft will never take off because it couldn't build any windspeed.
nm, you answered it here. You do understand that the conveyor has no effect on how much air the plane can pull and or push right?