Pilot Institute

JUNE 4, 2025

Use of Reflex Airfoils Ever notice how many tailless aircraft have wings that curve at the trailing edge? This type of design is a reflex airfoil. The reflexed shape of the airfoil usually causes a positive (nose-up) pitching moment coefficient at its aerodynamic center. Flying wings dont have tails or elevators.

Tail 52

Tail Airplanes Weight-Shift-Control Drag 52

Pilot Institute

APRIL 12, 2025

Newton’s Third Law helps pilots and engineers improve flight safety and aircraft performance. Developments in aircraft design and engine technology have allowed us to fly farther, faster, and carry more payload. They are designed with a special shape called an airfoil, which encourages passing air to turn and deflect downward.

Lift 52

Lift Torque Thrust Aileron 52

Pilot Institute

JUNE 12, 2025

These movements are controlled by hydraulic or electric actuators, which are managed by onboard computers or you, the pilot. During dogfights or evasive maneuvers, pilots are able to change wing configurations to manage speed and agility. Another tradeoff that you need to juggle is payload vs range.

Weight-Shift-Control 52

Weight-Shift-Control Drag Lift Payload 52

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

When spelled geoduck it represents a grotesque, oversized mollusk, or clam to we pilot simpletons. Much depends on the aircraft’s weight, pilot skill and, surprisingly, “how much abuse you want to experience. Checking the oil is the main attraction to the pilot. The airplane will handle more than you want to.”

Airplanes 79

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 79