Flaps

Defining Flaps: Control Surfaces That Alter Wing Curvature and Increase Lift and Drag

Flaps are movable panels located on the trailing edge of an aircraft’s wings, which can be extended or retracted to change the shape and surface area of the wings. These surfaces alter the curvature of the wings, which allows the pilot to control lift and drag at low airspeeds. Flaps are designed to increase the amount of lift generated by the wings at slower speeds, enabling an aircraft to takeoff and land at slower speeds safely.

Flaps are control surfaces that are often confused with other moveable surfaces on an aircraft. They are primarily used on wings to increase lift and/or drag as the aircraft slows down progressively. Increased lift is usually achieved by increasing the wing area and the camber (shape) of the wing to a lesser extent. However, the greatest effect is achieved with large changes in camber, resulting in increased drag.

Furthermore, flaps also act as hinged portions located between the ailerons and fuselage, and in some aircraft, ailerons and flaps are interconnected to produce full-span “flaperons.” Either way, flaps change the lift and drag on the wing, allowing the pilot to control the amount of lift and drag an aircraft experiences to safely fly at lower speeds.

Overall, flaps are integral control surfaces that enable an aircraft to safely navigate low-speed flight operations such as takeoff and landings. They increase lift and provide more control over the aircraft at reduced speeds by altering the wing curvature and surface area.