Aerospace Engineering

Flaps are a common feature of airplane wings. Located on the trailing edge, they are used to increase drag and lift. Flaps are hinged surfaces that pilots can control from the cockpit. By default, they are typically retracted so that … Read More

Contrary to common belief, airplanes aren’t designed with stiff and rigid wings; they are designed with flexible wings. When flying at cruising altitude, airplanes are exposed to significant stress. The wings must be able to withstand the stress. Otherwise, the … Read More

The A380 and A320 are two of the most iconic jets in the skies. Developed by Airbus, they are used by commercial airlines around the world. While they share the same manufacturer, however, the A380 and A320 are designed for … Read More

Do you know what happens during a stall? Contrary to common belief, it doesn’t involve mechanical failure. While stalls typically result in a loss of altitude, they don’t involve the failure or engines or other mechanical components. To learn more … Read More

Most airplanes and other aircraft typically use one of two types of engines: turbofan or turboprop. Turbofans are air-breathing jet engines that burn fuel and air to create hot, pressurized exhaust gas. Turboprops, on the other hand, are gas turbine … Read More

Do you know the difference between MS and NAS bolts? They are two of the most common types of threaded fasteners used in the aerospace industry. MS and NAS bolts are used in commercial airliners, commuter jets, helicopters and light … Read More

Airplanes are equipped with a variety of lights. In addition to anti-collision lights, there are landing lights. From small private jets to large commercial airliners, they are found on most airplanes. Here’s everything you need to know about landing lights. … Read More

Banked turns are a common flight maneuver in the aviation world. When pilots need to change the heading of an airplane, they will perform this maneuver. Airplanes don’t turn like cars and other land-based vehicles. Instead, they “bank.” For a … Read More

Given its strength, you may assume that steel is one of the most common materials used in the construction of airplanes. Depending on the type, it can have a tensile strength of over 150,000 pounds per square inch (PSI), making … Read More