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Go-Arounds: Why Airplanes Circle Over Runways

When an airplane approaches an airport, passengers typically expect it to land. There are instances, however, in which airplanes may circle over the runway before landing. Known as a go-around, it’s a common procedure in commercial aviation. What Is a … Continue reading

What Is a Rivet Compression Tool?

If you’re planning to use solid rivets, you may want to invest in a rivet compression tool. Solid rivets, of course, are mechanical fasteners consisting of a smooth cylindrical shank and a round head. They are commonly used in applications … Continue reading

Window Defogging: How Airplanes Maintain Clear Windows

Ever wonder why the cabin windows in most airplanes don’t fog up? Most automobiles experience fogged-up windows from time to time, so conventional wisdom may lead you to believe that airplanes experience them as well. After all, the high altitudes … Continue reading

What Is a Hydro-Mechanical Flight Control System?

Flight control systems are often categorized according to how they operate. Electrical flight control systems, for instance, operate electrically. They feature an electronic interface, such as a computer, that pilots use to control the aircraft. Also known as fly-by-wire (FBW) … Continue reading

Epoxy vs Super Glue: What’s the Difference?

Whether you’re doing a home project or working on an aircraft, choosing the right type of adhesive is important. Adhesives, of course, are products that cause objects to stick together. They offer a simple and effective way to join two … Continue reading

What Is a Variable-Pitch Propeller?

Not all fixed-wing aircraft rely strictly on jet engines to generate thrust. Some of them use one or more propellers. Known as turboprop aircraft, they are typically smaller and limited to shorter flights than larger, jet-powered aircraft. There are fixed-pitch … Continue reading

Why Airplanes Stall at High Altitude

Ever wonder why airplanes stall at high altitudes? Most commercial airliners have a cruising altitude of about 30,000 feet. The air is thinner at high altitudes such as this, so commercial airliners burn less fuel and experience less turbulence. If … Continue reading

Why Do Jet Engines Open Up on the Runway?

If you’ve ever watched commercial airliners land on a runway, you may recall seeing their engines open up. There are door-like panels on the sides of jet engines. While these panels typically remain closed during takeoffs, they open during landings. … Continue reading

5 Facts About Airplane Cabins

Think you know everything there is to know about airplane cabins? All commercial airplanes have a cabin. Located within the fuselage, it’s the main interior section that houses the airplane’s cargo and passengers. Here are five fun facts about cabins. … Continue reading