Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 11, 2024

The outer wing generates more lift than the inner wing since it’s temporarily moving faster. Extra lift makes the wing rise. Increased lift on the raised wing immediately creates more induced drag. What’s induced drag? The higher drag on the raised wing reduces its speed relative to the lower wing.

Stability 52

Stability Center of Gravity Aileron Rudder 52

Learn to Fly

JULY 11, 2024

This happens regardless of weight, bank angle, temperature, density altitude, or center of gravity. This flight instrument measures the angle between an aircraft’s wing and the relative wind, providing a visual representation of how much lift the wings are generating at a given airspeed or angle of bank.

Airfoil 52

Airfoil Center of Gravity Density Altitude Drag 52

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 1, 2024

And ice doesn’t just make things slippery, it messes with the airflow over the wings, cuts down on lift, and ramps up drag. This leads to a serious loss of lift and an increase in drag. With thicker accumulations and irregular shapes, drag can get up to two times worse!

Pitot Tube 52

Pitot Tube Drag Lift Airfoil 52

Pilot Institute

MARCH 26, 2024

This tendency is due to their high center of gravity and heavy engine over the nose wheel. However, the increased drag might make it impossible to take off again. This does two things: it keeps the load on the wings and increases drag. The sudden loss of lift can cause the wheels to dig into the ground.

NOTAMs 52

NOTAMs Runway Approach Descent 52

Pilot Institute

APRIL 5, 2024

A sideslip approach creates excess drag and requires more control inputs. High-wing aircraft are particularly vulnerable due to their higher center of gravity. A bounce or skip is likely if the aircraft lands while the wing is generating significant lift. The crab method is the most comfortable way to fly the approach.

Crosswind 52

Crosswind Aileron Longitudinal Axis Rudder 52

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

Winging It Aside from the aforementioned desire for a greater aspect ratio for reduced drag, the one-piece Gweduck wing was developed for minimal weight, ease of construction and benign handling. Keeping drag corralled was emphasized as the Gweduck mission is foremost long-distance cruising. Maintenance room is generally very good.

Airplanes 62

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 62