What is an Aircraft APU and What’s it Used For? A Hidden But Essential Component

What is an Aircraft APU and What’s it Used For

The Auxiliary Power Unit stands as a crucial component, often unnoticed by passengers yet vital for the seamless operation of an aircraft. This compact device, nestled within the tail or main body of the plane, plays a pivotal role in ensuring that various systems function efficiently, especially when the main engines are not running. What … Read more

What are Airplane Wingtip Vortices? A Flight Engineer’s Guide

Airplane Wingtip Vortices what is it

The creation of vortices at the wingtips is an unavoidable consequence of generating lift, the force that keeps an aircraft airborne. This aerodynamic occurrence originates from the necessity of creating a pressure differential across the airfoil. Air from the lower pressure region on the top surfaces seeks to equalize with the higher pressure beneath the … Read more

What are the Different Types of Aircraft Engines? Aircraft Engine Essentials

Aircraft engines are the power plants that propel aircraft through the sky. From the early days of aviation to the modern era, various engine types have been developed, each with unique characteristics and uses. Piston Engines Piston engines, reminiscent of the early days of flight, continue to power a vast array of light aircraft today. … Read more