What Are ‘Lift Dumpers’ on Airplanes and How Do They Work?

Airplanes feature many different components. While you might be familiar with some of these components, such as the wings and landing gear, there are other components that go unnoticed. Some airplanes feature lift dumpers, for instance. To learn more about … Continue reading

Turboprop vs Turboshaft Engine: What’s the Difference?

When researching aircraft engines, you may come across turboprop and turboshaft. They are two common types of propeller-based engines. Some airplanes are powered by traditional jet engines, such a turbojet engines. Others, however, are powered by propeller-based engines, such as … Continue reading

What’s Inside the Nose Cone of a Typical Airplane?

Ever wonder what’s inside the nose cone of an airplane? Most commercial airplanes have a cylindrical tip at the front of the fuselage. Known as the nose can, it’s the forwardmost section. While some people assume that airplanes have an … Continue reading

What Is an Ice Detection System?

Ice isn’t just a concern for drivers on the road; it’s a concern for pilots as well. Ice may form on the body of an airplane while subsequently affecting the airplane’s lift, angle of attack and other flight dynamics. There … Continue reading

Pushbacks: Why Airplanes Must Be Towed on the Runway

It’s not uncommon for ground support equipment to tow airplanes on the runway prior to takeoff. After all of the passengers have boarded, ground support equipment will manually tow the airplane away from the gate. The pilot will then start … Continue reading

The Beginner’s Guide to Clevis Pins and How They Work

Clevis fasteners are used in many different industries, some of which include construction, agriculture, marine and manufacturing. Also known simply as a clevis, a clevis fastener is a multi-part fastening system. Among other things, it features a clevis pin. If … Continue reading

What Are HEPA Air Filters And Why Do Airplanes Use Them?

It’s a common myth that the air inside of airplane cabins is dirty. When flying aboard a commercial airplane, you’ll typically breathe in a mixture of about half fresh air and half fresh air. Commercial airplanes are equipped with air … Continue reading

What Are Flight Critical Parts in Airplanes?

To say airplanes have a lot of parts would be an understatement. When accounting for everything from landing wheel bearings and wheels to wires and fasteners, many airplanes have millions of parts. Some of these parts, however, are more important … Continue reading

An Introduction to Leading Edge Extensions in Airplanes

Not all airplanes have plain, smooth leading edges. Whether it’s a commercial jet or a small private airliner, many of them feature leading edge extensions. What are leading edge extensions exactly, and how do they work in airplanes? What Are … Continue reading