When most people think of spoilers, they envision the wing-like structures found on the back of sports cars. Spoilers such as these are common. They are aerodynamic devices that disrupt or “spoil” the airflow, resulting in better performance. But spoilers aren’t limited to cars. They are found on the wings of many airplanes as well. Here are five facts about wing spoilers.
#1) Consist of Hinged Panels
While they are available in different types and sizes, all wing spoilers consist of hinged panels. They are found on the top of an airplane’s wings. A typical commercial airliner has two wing spoilers: one on each wing. By default, the spoilers lie flat and flush with the rest of the airplane’s wings. Pilots, however, can raise the spoilers by flipping them up via a control mechanism in the cockpit.
#2) Also Known as Lift Dumper
Wing spoilers are also known as lift dumpers. This is due to their ability to reduce lift when deployed. Why would pilots want to reduce an airplane’s lift exactly? There are several instances in which reduced lift may prove beneficial. If pilots are preparing to land, for instance, they may deploy the airplane’s spoilers to reduce lift. Alternatively, if pilots are looking to descend, they may want to reduce lift using the airplane’s spoilers.
#3) Spoilers Assist With Braking
Many pilots will leave the airplane’s spoilers raised while on the runway after landing. Airplanes have traditional brakes to slow down their landing gear wheels. Like automotive brakes, though, they are exposed to friction that causes them to wear down. Deploying the airplane’s spoilers will take some of the burden off these brakes. The deployed spoilers will essentially slow the airplane so that the brakes are exposed to less friction.
#4) Single Spoiler for Banking
A single spoiler can be used for banking. When preparing to land or descend, pilots will typically deploy both of the airplane’s spoilers. For banking, however, pilots may only deploy one of the airplane’s spoilers.
#5) Passengers Can Feel Them
If you’ve ever felt a sudden jolt when preparing to land in an airplane, it was probably the spoilers. Passengers can feel the spoilers being deployed in most airplanes. Furthermore, spoiler deployment is typically accompanied by a distinct sound. Passengers will hear the air as it rushes over and past the deployed spoilers.
