On fixed-wing aircraft, there are numerous aerodynamic devices installed which serve a number of functions. These functions include the generation of lift and drag across the airfoil. Two of the aerodynamic devices found on aircraft are flaps and ailerons. Flaps being lift-generating devices in which the chord of the wing can be changed while also … Read more
Autobrake RTO Mode systems on aircraft provide automated deceleration functions during the take off and landing phases of flight. On sophisticated commercial aircraft, this automation reduces the workload for the flight crew while also ensuring the braking power applied is at a smooth and sufficient rate. The deceleration and braking power applied depends on the … Read more
On the Airbus A320 family, there are 2 engine types available: the CFM International CFM56 and the IAE V2500. There are numerous characteristics to both engine types which suit particular sets of operations. Read out the comparison between CFM56 vs IAE V2500 engine types. As of 2022, approximately 65% of Airbus A320 aircraft types are powered … Read more
On the Takeoff page on the MCDU, the takeoff configuration is entered into the FMS. This takeoff configuration comprises settings such as takeoff flaps, horizontal trim setting, FLEX TO temp, and V-speeds (V1, VR, V2). On the R3 section of the MCDU, there is an option for FLAPS/THS. This is short for Flaps/Trimmable Horizontal Stabilizer. … Read more
Flex (short for flexible) temperature is an Airbus-centric term used to describe the use of derated thrust takeoff procedures. Similar to the DERATE setting found on Boeing Aircraft, the FLEX Temperature setting found on Airbus aircraft allows flight crews to select a pre-determined takeoff thrust setting that is below the maximum available thrust setting (TOGA … Read more
An aerodynamic stall occurs when an airfoil is no longer able to produce sufficient lift, in which airflow over and under the wing breaks away. Stalls occur when the critical angle of attack (AoA) of the airfoil is exceeded. The angle of attack (AoA) may be defined as the angle between the chord line of … Read more
On Airbus aircraft, the engine ignition system is controlled via a singular switch that controls the engine start process. This system involves feeding air to the air starter, which starts the rotation of the engines. In this article we’ll discuss about Airbus engine mode selector crank, wet motor over and dry motoring. Under most operating … Read more
From the A320 series onwards, the throttle and power setting system on Airbus aircraft is designed to maximize efficiency, safety, and fuel economy. This is achieved via an intricate computer-based management autothrust system (A/THR) integrated in line with the Airbus Fly By Wire (FBW) system. Airbus Autothrust (A/THR) System As part of this systems architecture, … Read more
The Airbus A320 family is considered the most commercially successful narrowbody aircraft of all time. With over 10,000 aircraft produced since the type’s introduction in 1987, the aircraft has evolved in terms of technical specifications and performance. A pivotal element of the aircraft series is the difference between the -100 and -200 variants of the … Read more
The genesis of the regional jet market on a large scale dates back to the early 1990s. The most common player in this market is the Bombardier CRJ series of regional jets. Up until the end of the production run of the CRJ series in 2020, more than 1900 airframes across the range were produced. … Read more
The difference between a monocoque and semi-monocoque structure is the way in which they absorb and carry flight loads. A semi-monocoque structure is comprised of structural elements which “carry” the flight loads and stress on the structure of the aircraft. Monocoque structures consist of a design in which only the skin of the aircraft carries … Read more
In aviation terminology, there are often various terms used to describe specific aspects of an aircraft’s details. These terms are important for reference and record keeping purposes, as they provide information about the aircraft to the relevant authorities or groups which require it. Two of the most specific terms associated to an aircraft are its … Read more
