Table of Contents
Abstract
Different airplanes are developed with different features to enhance their performance for different objectives. Boeing 737 is designed to operate within short distances and has features like winglets and wing mounted engines tailored for that purpose.
Introduction
This research paper examines Boeing 737’s aerodynamic features customized for the aircrafts intended objective. The features include aerodynamic and aerofoils; drag/lift; jet/propeller aircraft. Slow speed flight; maneuvering performance; longitudinal, directional, and lateral stability and control; and high speed flight.
Aerodynamic and Airfoil Forces
The plane has wing-mounted flush to clear the ground. Winglets minimize lift induced drag and offer additional lift. Curved winglets reduce aerodynamic drag while improving performance (B737, n.d).
Drag/lift forces
Boeing 737’s winglets decrease lift-induced drag and increase its lift force. Winglets allow a steep climb to increase take-off performance and decrease drag while enhancing aerodynamic efficiency to reduce fuel burn (Boeing, n.d).
Jet Aircraft/ Propeller Aircraft
The airplane uses twin jet engines mounted on its wings, which is more powerful and faster than a propeller engine (Farokhi, 2014). In turn, this gives the plane a massive thrust and allows it to operate for longer hours.
Slow Speed Flight
It is a twin engine plane, which allows it to fly, land or takeoff safely if one engine fails. Winglets reduce drag and increase lift to allow the plane land at low speeds on short runaways. High flight spoiler deflection of 60 degrees allows it to break performance as it lands (B737, n.d).
Maneuvering Performance
The presence of high flight deflection of 60 degrees controls breaking when landing. Winglets decrease cruise thrust and increase controllability and maneuverability. Wing mounted engines ensures stability (Boeing, n.d).
Longitudinal, Directional, and Lateral Stability and Control
The presence of a vertical stabilizer attached with a dorsal fin improves directional stability. A 6 degree dihedral and a 25.02 quarter-chord sweep maintains longitudinal and lateral stability (Boeing, n.d).
High Speed Flight
The presence of powerful twin jet engines ensures high speed slight. Winglets decrease drag (B737, n.d).
Conclusion
Boeing 737 meets the power and speed of a commercial aircraft whereas maintaining its ability to be maneuverable and controllable and to land on short runways.
- B737. (n.d.). Winglets.
- Boeing. (n.d.). Boeing Next-Generation 737.
- Farokhi, S. (2014). Aircraft propulsion. John Wiley & Sons.
- Stengel, R. F. (2015). Flight dynamics. Princeton University Press.