Flaps

Flaps are hinged surfaces on the trailing edge of the wing that extend to increase the wing area and camber, generating more lift at lower speeds. This allows the aircraft to fly slower during takeoff and landing while maintaining adequate lift.

Common flap types:

• Plain flap: Simple hinge (training aircraft)
• Split flap: Lower surface only deflects
• Slotted flap: Gap allows high-energy air to flow over flap (most common)
• Fowler flap: Extends rearward and down, increasing both area and camber (airliners)

Flap settings are expressed in degrees (e.g., Flaps 5, 15, 25, 30, 40) and are selected based on takeoff/landing weight and runway conditions.