Isn't this the difference between the way an automobile moves and an airplane? The automobile applies force through friction of a rotating tire against the ground, a non-moving surface. The fact that the car moves through air is secondary, hence aerodynamic designs...
The aeroplane applies force through movement of air via propeller or jet/turbine engine. The fact that the aeroplane interacts with the ground is a secondary (hence bearings to reduce friction) while the primary thrust is derived from air movement.
Therefore, wouldn't the brakes remain relevant for providing the friction against another form of energy (inertia) of contact with the ground to help "fight" the plane's movement through air as it lands? Now a plane is harnessing both mediums - Air flaps/reversed engines to help create braking push against air flow, and wheel brakes to push against the ground...
The aeroplane applies force through movement of air via propeller or jet/turbine engine. The fact that the aeroplane interacts with the ground is a secondary (hence bearings to reduce friction) while the primary thrust is derived from air movement.
Therefore, wouldn't the brakes remain relevant for providing the friction against another form of energy (inertia) of contact with the ground to help "fight" the plane's movement through air as it lands? Now a plane is harnessing both mediums - Air flaps/reversed engines to help create braking push against air flow, and wheel brakes to push against the ground...