Pilot Institute

JUNE 4, 2025

This setup makes the wing less efficient overall, but it can reduce drag, weight, and cost compared to using a separate tail. High aspect ratio wings reduce drag and improve performance during climb or slow flight. On the flipside, a decrease in aspect ratio will result in higher drag. This type of design is a reflex airfoil.

Tail 52

Tail Airplanes Weight-Shift-Control Drag 52

Simple Flying

JUNE 14, 2025

Hinged panels at the wing’s trailing and leading edges transform a sleek airfoil into a low-speed lift sail. Increasing camber, flaps propel an airliner to lift off at lower speeds, trading a little drag for a lot of lift. One of the most influential cockpit levers on a jet’s take-off is the flap handle.

Camber 76

Camber Airfoil Lift Drag 76

Vintage Aviation News

APRIL 1, 2025

Particularly in battle aerodynamics, drag reduction, and structural durability, early aircraft teach engineers today important insights. Setting the benchmark for modern airliners, the Douglas DC-3 (1935) a classic in commercial aviation brought all-metal construction, retractable landing gear, and more efficient airfoil designs.

Drag 52

Drag Lift Jet Stability 52

Fear of Landing

MARCH 22, 2024

This is an exploration of how NASA research has influenced modern airliners through research and technology. One of the most revolutionary was the “area rule,” a concept that helped aircraft designers avoid the disruption in airflow and resulting drag caused by the attachment of the wings to the fuselage.

Wind Shear 52

Wind Shear Airfoil Drag Airline 52