How Are Flaps On Airplanes Used?

Curious aviation fans may wonder how are flaps on airplanes used? Flaps on airplanes aid in landings and takeoffs. They are a vital component of an airplane flight control system. Each airplane has specific sized and positioned flaps based on it's design properties.

Some airstrips are very short, and even under maximum power an airplane wouldn't be able to take off without the flaps engaged at usually a ten degree position for light airplanes.

Landing with flaps is usually the norm. As an airplane flies around the landing pattern, the pilot will apply more flaps at each turn. The flaps allow the plane to fly slower without loosing altitude as fast. At landing, the flaps are usually in a full flaps condition. The slower the landing, the more smooth and comfortable it is.

Balked landings usually require around twenty degrees of flaps. When a pilot calls off a landing and needs to go around, the flaps aid in creating better lift and getting the plane back up to landing pattern altitude for the next attempt.

Some airplanes have mechanical flaps. A lever is inside the cabin and it is attached by cables to the flaps. When the pilot lifts the lever, the flaps move into a different position.

Electronic flaps are found on more full featured airplanes. A switch on the panel can be moved to different degree positions and an electronic motor moves the flaps into the desired angle.

More advanced airplanes have hydraulic flaps. Military aircraft and commercial aircraft use this method to control the flaps as there can be great pressure on them during deployment.

Resource:

Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association