The tail assembly is an important part of most modern airplanes. Also known as the empennage, it provides stability, balance and control. Many tail assemblies feature a vertical stabilizer that prevents the rear of the airplane from swaying to the side. They also feature rudders that allow pilots to turn the airplane. In addition to these parts, many tail assemblies feature a tail cone. What are tail cones exactly, and why do airplanes have them?
Overview of Tail Cones
Tail cones are tapered, cone-shaped tail extensions. They are found on the very end of an airplane’s tail. Most airplanes don’t have a flat tail that ends abruptly. Instead, they feature a tapered end, which is more commonly known as a tail cone.
The tail cone typically begins at the rear section of the fuselage. From there, it becomes progressively narrower towards the tail. This tapered shape distinguishes the tail cone from other parts of the airplane, including the fuselage.
Reduces Drag
With their aerodynamic cone-like shape, tail cones reduce drag. All airplanes produce drag during flight. Drag is the invisible, opposing force that an object experiences as it moves through the air. Tail cones, however, minimize drag by controlling the way in which air flows over and around airplanes. Because they are tapered, air can flow smoothly over them without spinning and creating turbulence.
Improves Fuel Efficiency
Tail cones also improve fuel efficiency. Fuel costs are one of the biggest expenses for commercial airlines. Research shows fuel accounts for roughly one-third of a typical airline’s operating expenses. Lowering the weight of an airplane will make it more fuel efficient. Another solution is to make the airplane more aerodynamic. Tail cones, of course, are very aerodynamic. They reduce drag so that airplanes can fly more effortlessly through the air.
Supports the Tail Assembly
Tail cones provide structural support for the tail assembly. As previously mentioned, tail cones feature multiple parts, such as rudders and a vertical stabilizer. Tail cones are heavily reinforced so that they can distribute mechanical stress throughout the airplane’s body, thereby protecting these parts from damage.
Houses Equipment
Finally, tail cones contain essential equipment. Commercial airliners, for instance, often feature an auxiliary power unit (APU) in or near the tail cone. The APU acts like a turbine engine to produce electrical power when the airplane is on the ground or during emergency scenarios. In addition to APUs, tail cones often contain cables, hydraulic lines, electrical wiring, sensors and other essential equipment.