What Is Load Factor and Why Does It Matter?

Load factor is a frequently misunderstood term in the aviation industry. All airplanes have surfaces that produce lift. Known as lifting surfaces, they feature an aerodynamic design that allows air to flow under and over them. The pressure difference between … Read More

Things to Consider When Choosing Aviation Snips

Aviation snips offer an easy and effective way to cut sheet metal. Also known as sheet snips, they feature a scissor-like design with a pair of blades. As you squeeze the handle, the blades will collapse while slicing through sheet … Read More

5 Facts About Lighter-Than-Air Aircraft

When most people think of aircraft, they envision jet- or propeller-powered airplanes. Jet airplanes use one or more jet engines to burn a mixture or gas. This process, known as combustion, creates hot exhaust gases that propel the airplane forward. … Read More

What Are Flange-Head Screws?

Screws are often categorized according to their head. In addition to truss head and pan head, there are flange-head screws. They feature a threaded shank and a pointed end — just like most screws. Flange-head screws, however, have a unique … Read More

Why Don’t Airplanes Use Coolant?

Coolant is an essential automotive fluid, but you won’t find it in most airplanes. Whether it’s a small Cessna 172 or a jumbo-sized Airbus A380, most airplanes don’t use it. Airplanes use other types of fluid, such as oil and … Read More

How Weight Affects Airplanes

The weight of an aircraft can affect its performance in several ways. Some airplanes are heavier than others. A standard Cessna 172, for instance, weighs about 1,669 pounds without any cargo or passengers. An Airbus A320, on the other hand, weighs … Read More

What Is Hand Propping and How Does It Work?

Have you heard of hand propping? If so, you might be wondering how it works. Most propeller-driven airplanes are equipped with an electric starter. After turning on the fuel selector and setting the throttle to idle, pilots can activate the … Read More

Can Airplanes Fly Through Hail?

Hail is a relatively common weather phenomenon. Statistics show that the United States experiences an average of 158 days of hail per year. It involves frozen precipitation that manifests in the form of balls or clumps of ice. Given that … Read More

The Pros and Cons of Aluminum Alloy Rivets

Not all rivets are made of the same material. Some of them are made of titanium. Titanium rivets are very strong and durable, but they typically cost more than rivets made of other materials. You can also find rives made … Read More