Remove Airfoil Remove Stability Remove Torque
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Is Flying a Helicopter Harder Than Flying a Plane? A Comparative Analysis

Pilot's Life Blog

The wings are designed with an airfoil shape, curved on the top and flatter on the bottom, creating a pressure difference when air flows over them. Each rotor blade acts as an airfoil, and as it rotates, it moves air over its surface, generating lift. This pressure difference produces lift, allowing the aircraft to ascend.

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Today in Aviation History: First Flight of the Kawanishi E15K

Vintage Aviation News

In order to minimize the effects of torque on the aircraft, the Shiun was equipped with the MK4D variant of the Kasei engine, which was modified to accept contra-rotating two-bladed propellers. Additionally, the Shiun incorporated a laminar flow airfoil to reduce drag.

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Nothing Small About It

Plane and Pilot

Another advantage of the counter-rotating props is the elimination of torque roll. This is the tendency to dig in the left tip float during takeoff while countering engine torque. The airfoil is a Harry Riblett shape, giving modernized flow separation on the leading edge for a soft stall yet with good lift and drag performance.