Pilot Institute

MARCH 28, 2025

By far the strongest component of wake turbulence is the swirling air generated at the tips of the aircrafts wings. Key Takeaways Wingtip vortices, not engine exhaust, create the strongest wake turbulence. Wake turbulence can cause severe roll and structural damage to smaller aircraft. How Are Wingtip Vortices Formed?

Turbulence 97

Turbulence Lift Drag Runway 97

Vintage Aviation News

APRIL 1, 2025

From the first days of flying to the evolution of supersonic jets, historic aircraft offer a road map for comprehending the ideas guiding aeronautical engineering. As shown by the Messerschmitt Me 262, the first operational jet fighter in the world, jet propulsion was the most innovative breakthrough of this age.

Drag 52

Drag Lift Jet Stability 52

Vintage Aviation News

APRIL 18, 2025

One of the standout aircraft in Drydens research history is the Grumman F-14 Tomcat, a legendary Navy fighter jet that played a key role in two major research programs at the center. These glove modifications served to smooth the wing surface and alter the airfoil to achieve specific pressure distributions.

Horizontal Stabilizer 52

Horizontal Stabilizer Aileron Tail Airfoil 52