Posted by: Mark Christopher | June 1, 2009

The Three Axes of Flight

N2348NThe aerodynamics of maneuvering in flight revolves around the three axes of rotation.  These specific principles are the cornerstone of all flight maneuvers such as climbs, descents and of course turning maneuvers.N44V-5

Longitudinal axis is created by the ailerons and produces a “Roll”

Lateral axis creates the “Pitch” movement and is controlled by either the elevator, or the stabilator.

Vertical axis is effected and controlled by the rudder and produces “Yaw”

NC16522All three axis are concentrated at the center of gravity of the aircraft. 

This is just a brief introduction to the three axes of flight, for more in depth information, check out our “Pilot Shop” located at the top right hand side of this blog.

Until Next Flight,

Ace Pilot

Posted by: Mark Christopher | May 30, 2009

Swept Wing Aerodynamics

For the same reason swept wings are a draw back for slower aircraft they are exactly what a modern jet needs.N4808J

 The swept wing aerodynamic configuration is designed for high speed high altitude and long-range flight characteristics. 

In addition typically speaking swept wings with a sweep of about 35 degrees will allow jets to operate more efficiently at higher speeds by reducing the drag penalty.  This is exactly what allows the aircraft to fly faster but not without sacrifice, in this case we sacrifice lift, that is why the craft, out of necessity must go faster in order to produce the same amount of lift as an aircraft with a straight wing.  

 There is another advantage and added benefit of an aircraft with swept wing aerodynamics, it is less sensitive to air turbulence. 

This is just a brief introduction of Swept Wing Aerodynamics, for more info check out our “Pilot Store” top right of this blogg, if you have any tips or advice, even a gripe please leave a comment.

Thanks, Until Next Flight

Ace Pilot

Posted by: Mark Christopher | May 28, 2009

The Four Forces of Flight

Aerodynamics has evolved to a finely tuned science, mankind has cracked the code for flight and has taken to the Sky.  While the simplicity of a bird in flight mesmerizes children of all ages, it’s even more fascinating to watch an airplane fly over head.  The sound of it’s approach common to anyone living in this century as the age of flight has now reached it’s centennial anniversary.

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The conquest of flying has changed the face of this world forever.

While our discussion of flying will forever surpass this brief article with the extensive amount of information available this day and age, one could go on, and on.  Today I would just like to introduce the four basic aerodynamic forces that make flight possible

The first force would be LIFT.  Lift is an upward effect created by the flow of air as it passes under and over an airfoil, typically the wings.

WEIGHT, opposes lift and is caused by gravity and its constant downward pull

THRUST, is the force that propels an airplane forward, and the amount of thrust varies depending on the size and weight of an aircraft, and engine being used.

DRAG, like weight, is in opposition to the thrust and has a backward pulling effect on the craft and limits the speed an aircraft can achieve.

 

C-GMTH

This is a basic level introduction of the four forces of flight, for more detailed information check out the books and manuals in our “Pilot Shop” located at the top right hand side of this Blogg.

Thanks, Until next flight,

Ace Pilot

Posted by: Mark Christopher | May 26, 2009

Ace Pilot

N42584Ace Pilot is a great place to check out if you are into anything that flies, or if you are an aspiring Pilot yourself, or perhaps your interested in aeronautical engineering, maybe your niche is building model airplanes or even just paper airplanes, whatever the case you found the place,

Thanks Until next Fight

 Ace Pilot

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