Pilot Institute

OCTOBER 2, 2024

It’s not magic—it’s ground effect. When you’re flying near the ground, within one wingspan, the aerodynamic forces start to change. Your wings don’t create as much drag as they would at higher altitudes, which gives you extra lift. Ground effect is a phenomenon that every pilot must master.

Ground Effect 52

Ground Effect Drag Lift Runway 52

Flight Training Central

MAY 6, 2024

This meant the airplane, if were to carry anything, had to be built from very light materials incapable of providing support for a wing long enough to generate the needed lift. The bi-wing design allows two shorter wings to be braced against one another with a series of struts and wires providing the strength and lifting surface required.

Lift 97

Lift Drag Airplanes Ground Effect 97

Pilot Institute

MARCH 29, 2024

Lift : The aerodynamic force generated due to airflow over the wings. Drag : The aerodynamic force opposing the aircraft’s forward motion. The aircraft’s deceleration reduces the airflow over the wings, which reduces lift. When the lift force is less than the force of gravity, the aircraft descends. Why does this happen?

Lift 52

Lift Rudder Drag AGL 52

Pilot Institute

MARCH 26, 2024

However, the increased drag might make it impossible to take off again. Hold this extra power as you enter ground effect. Low-wing aircraft perform better in ground effect because of the wing’s proximity to the ground. This does two things: it keeps the load on the wings and increases drag.

NOTAMs 52

NOTAMs Runway Approach Descent 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