Pros and Cons of Reverse-Flow Turboprop Engines

Turboprops are one of the most common types of aircraft engines. Research shows they power about half of all short-range airplanes. Conventional jet engines like turbofans still dominate the long-range market, but many short-range airplanes use turboprops. Turboprops are gas … Read More

How Anti-Seize Lube Works for Airplane Spark Plugs

Ever wonder how anti-seize lube works for airplane spark plugs? It’s not uncommon for airplane spark plugs to feature a thin layer of anti-seize lube. Spark plugs, of course, aren’t limited to automobiles. Nearly all airplanes with reciprocating engines use … Read More

Why Do Jet Engines Sound Different During Takeoffs and Landings?

If you’ve ever observed commercial jets at a major airport, you may recall them sounding different during takeoffs and landings. Jet engines aren’t silent. At cruising altitude, they typically generate 80 to 90 decibels (dB) of in-cabin noise, which is … Read More

What Is an Engine Build Up (EBU) in Aviation?

Jet engines are the backbone of the commercial aviation industry. Statistics show that they power over nine in 10 commercial airliners. When compared to propeller engines, such as turboprops, jet engines are typically faster, quieter and more efficient at high … Read More

Legacy vs Low-Cost Airlines: What’s the Difference?

While the exact number varies, research shows that there are over 100,000 commercial flights globally per day. Commercial flights, of course, are operated by businesses known as airlines. Airlines sell flight services for scheduled routes to the general public. There … Read More

What Factors Affect an Airplane’s Climb Rate?

Pilots must constantly monitor climb rate. Expressed in feet per minute (FPM), it represents the speed at which an airplane ascends or descends. A positive climb rate indicates the airplane is ascending and gaining altitude. A negative climb rate indicates … Read More

What Are Brake Wear Pins and How Do Airplanes Use Them?

Most airplanes feature disc-style brakes similar to those found on automobiles. They are typically found on the main landing gear. Upon touching down, pilots will engage the airplane’s brakes. Heat-resistant discs will then squeeze together to create friction that slows … Read More

Annular vs. Forced Exhaust Mixers: What’s the Difference?

Exhaust noise is a concern with jet-powered airplanes. As hot exhaust gases collide with cool ambient air, it creates intense waves of pressurized and turbulent air, which manifests in the form of a loud roar-like noise. Fortunately, advancements in modern … Read More

What Is a Fuel Scavenge Pump and How Does It Work?

Fuel pumps play an important role in aviation. With the exception of small, gravity-fed airplanes, most modern airplanes use them to deliver fuel to their engines. Airplanes typically feature an electric boost pump for takeoffs and landings, and they feature … Read More