Abstract: The present invention relates generally to the operation of aircraft maneuvering with its landing gear in contact with a surface. Multiple electromagnetic-wave sensors measure, with respect to the surface, the aircraft's lateral and longitudinal translational velocities, as well as the aircraft's yaw rate. Icons representing the measured velocities and rotations are displayed to onboard or remotely-located pilots of such aircraft to make them aware of slipping, side sliding, moving rearward, and other uncommanded movements caused by: low friction surfaces, wind buffeting, rolling and pitching platforms, and other disturbances. Pilots can use the increased awareness of the aircraft's movements with respect to the surface to take corrective action to prevent accidents. These capabilities can further be exploited to display icons representing the alignment of the aircraft with respect to a surface as opposed to alignment with respect to the horizon as is the present practice.