What is one key characteristic of aviation gas turbines?

A key characteristic of aviation gas turbines is their high thrust-to-weight ratio. This refers to the amount of thrust produced by the engine relative to its weight. A high thrust-to-weight ratio is crucial in aviation, as it allows aircraft to achieve better performance, such as quicker acceleration and improved climb rates. This is especially important in military aviation and high-performance commercial aircraft where speed and maneuverability are critical factors.

The design of gas turbines optimizes for maximum thrust while keeping the engine relatively lightweight, making them suitable for flight applications. This characteristic distinguishes them from other types of engines, which may compromise on either thrust or weight, thus limiting performance.