Airplanes are meticulously designed for aerodynamics. By minimizing drag, they are able to fly faster and more efficiently. To achieve an aerodynamic design, airplanes often feature fairings. Here’s everything you need to know about fairings and why airplanes have them.
Overview of Fairings
Fairings are fixed structures on airplanes, as well as other types of aircraft, that improve aerodynamics. They allow air to flow more smoothly over the surface of the airplane. As a result, fairings reduce drag.
The Purpose of Fairings
The primary purpose of fairings is to improve aerodynamics and reduce drag. Airplanes need to move through the air as smoothly as possible. Anything that disrupts airflow — gaps, protruding parts, large surface objects, etc. — will create drag. And drag will slow down the airplane while simultaneously forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Fairings offer a solution. They typically feature a smooth, streamlined shape that allows air to glide over them with minimal resistance or drag.
In addition to improving aerodynamics and reducing drag, some fairings cover and protect other parts from damage. They shield otherwise sensitive parts so that they aren’t exposed to the elements. Hydraulic lines and electrical systems, for instance, are often covered with fairings.
Another reason airplanes have fairings is to reduce noise. Airplanes have become quieter over the years, and one of the reasons for this is advancements in aircraft designs. Fairings help to reduce noise thanks to their aerodynamic properties. When air flows smoothly over an airplane, it will produce less noise.
Common Types of Fairings
There are many different types of fairings, each of which is located in a different area. Belly fairings, for example, are found on the belly of an airplane’s fuselage, whereas body-to-wing fairings are found where the wings connect to the body.
There are also landing gear fairings that, as the name suggests, cover the landing gear. They create a more streamlined area where the landing gear retracts into the airplane’s fuselage.
Engine nacelle fairings are found around the engines. They help to manage airflow and reduce drag around the airplane’s engines.
Many airplanes have tail fairings as well. Tail fairings are found between the tail assembly and the fuselage. They allow for a smooth transition between these two areas, allowing for better aerodynamics and less drag. These are just a few common types of fairings found on airplanes. Regardless of their location, all fairings consist of aerodynamic structures that reduce drag.
