Skip to content
Static labelled overviewSelected: Slats
TAIL CONTROLSWING AND HIGH-LIFT DEVICESLANDING GEARFLIGHT DECK
The searchable component guide and reviewed text remain usable without WebGL. The interactive model loads when this section approaches the viewport and the browser has idle time.
Read about Leading-edge slat

Guided journey

Core airflow: intake to exhaust

Follow the working fluid through the generic two-spool turbofan before tracing the shafts that return turbine work to the compressors and fan.

Step 1 of 8Intake

The intake presents the incoming air to the fan.

Trace the system

What connects to this part?

Select a turbofan flow-path or spool component to show its reviewed upstream and downstream links.

Identify the part

Find it in the model

Test spatial recall with the four reviewed low-pressure-system concepts.

Compare mode

See the difference

Compare where each high-lift device sits and how it changes the wing.

CompareTrailing-edge flapLeading-edge slat
LocationInboard trailing edgeWing leading edge
Primary effectIncreases camber and often areaOpens a slot that delays separation
Exam distinctionAdds substantial lift and dragHelps sustain attached flow at high angle of attack

Reviewed FAA source (2026-09-09)

Leading-edge slat

A leading-edge slat is a high-lift device that moves away from the wing leading edge to form a slot.

Where it is
Along the leading edge of each wing in the generic transport-aircraft model.
What it does
The slot helps the wing sustain attached airflow at a higher angle of attack and delays the stall.
Relationship
Slats complement trailing-edge flaps in the high-lift system, but they act at the wing’s leading edge.
Common confusion
A slat is not a trailing-edge flap. The slat opens a leading-edge slot; the flap changes trailing-edge camber and often wing area.

Check yourself

Without looking back, can you explain where the leading-edge slat is, what it does, and which component drives it or is driven by it?

Scope: Generic transport-aircraft teaching model. Reviewed 2026-09-09.

Related concepts

Sources

Optional analytics measures site use and campaign visits, with Vercel, Plausible when configured, and Sentry browser error monitoring. Login and security remain available if you reject. Your choice is saved on this device for up to 180 days. Cookie policy.