Flap (aircraft) Article Index for
Flap
 

Information About

Flap (aircraft)




Types include:
  • Plain flap - rotates on a simple hinge.

  • Split flap - upper and lower surfaces are separate, the lower surface operates like a plain flap, but the upper surface stays immobile or moves only slightly.

  • Fowler flap (Fairey-Youngman flap) - slides backwards before hinging downwards, thereby increasing both camber and chord, creating a larger wing surface better tuned for lower speeds.

  • Slotted flap - a slot (or gap) between the flap and the wing enables high pressure air from below the wing to re-energize the air blowing over the flap. This helps the airflow to stay attached to the flap, delaying the stall.

  • Blown Flaps - systems that blow engine air over the upper surface of the flap at certain angles to improve lift characteristics.


Slats are similar to flaps - they are on the leading edge of the wing.


SEE ALSO