Aerospace Engineering

The wings of airplanes are designed in a specific shape to achieve the greatest amount of lift. Known as an airfoil, it’s a common feature of nearly all commercial jets as well as propeller-driven airplanes. With their use of an … Read More

Airlines typically require passengers to open their window shades during takeoffs and landings. Once an airplane has reached cruising altitude — 31,000 to 38,000 feet — passengers can close them. At lower altitudes, though, passengers must keep their window shades … Read More

Regardless of their respective size, airplanes must stay within a certain angle to maintain lift. If they exceed this limit, their lift will decrease. This can lead to a phenomenon known as a stall. When an airplane stalls, it will … Read More

Jet engines are used to power airplanes of all shapes and sizes. When compared to propeller engines, they have a greater power output, thereby allowing for faster flight speeds. Not all jet engines are the same, however. While all jet … Read More

It’s not uncommon for ice to form on airplanes during the winter. It can occur when an airplane is on the runway or in the air. As moisture droplets accumulate on an airplane, they may freeze if the temperature drops … Read More

Have you ever noticed the colored lights used on the wingtips of airplanes? Although there are exceptions, most commercial airplanes have colored lights on their wingtips. You’ll often see either a green or red light on their wingtips that flashes … Read More

As airplanes ascend higher into the sky, they pump air into the cabin space to pressurize it. All commercial airplanes have pressurized cabins such as this. It doesn’t just create a more comfortable environment for passengers. Rather, cabin pressurization is … Read More

Originally introduced in 1958 with Pan American World Airways, the Boeing 707 is one of the world’s most iconic airplanes. The narrow-body airplane has made its way across the world while reaching countless commercial airlines in the process. While you’ve … Read More

Airplanes rely on landing gear to safely take off and land. Located in the undercarriage, it consists of wheels that essentially allow airplanes to drive or roll on the runway. Without landing gear, airplanes wouldn’t be able to safely land. … Read More