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Post by rob1978 on Apr 30, 2009 23:41:29 GMT -5
so i just got back from a trip to New Orleans this past weekend.. and on the plane ( boeing MD-88) i noticed that the entire leading edge of the wings had a layer on it that would move. it would extend forward and also tilt downward... i'm assuming this changes the airfoil of the plane. i noticed this on landing... i'm pretty sure it did it as well on takeoff, but i can't be sure as i needed some good drugs to get me on the plane due to my nerves ;D
does anyone know any info about what this does to the plane's airfoil and flight properties?
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zwever39
New Member
OFFICIAL LISF PHOTOGRAPHER
Posts: 14
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Post by zwever39 on Jun 9, 2009 6:32:23 GMT -5
They're leading edge slats and are used to improve low speed performance. On some aircraft like the F-86 and Fieseler Storch they deployed automatically at low speed. Phil could give a more detailed (and longer) explanation.
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Post by mlave36399 on Jul 1, 2009 19:29:12 GMT -5
actually it improves low speed performance by adding a little to the planes wing area also as they move forward they also droop the LE down a bit which changes the wings angle of attack which makes riding in the plane more comfortable for passengers like you in order to get the same performance the pilot would have to dive the plane at a steeper angle drooping the LE is more comfortable to the chickens inside the cabin
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