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Static labelled overviewSelected: Flaps
TAIL CONTROLSWING AND HIGH-LIFT DEVICESLANDING GEARFLIGHT DECK
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Read about Trailing-edge flap

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)

Trailing-edge flap

A trailing-edge flap is a secondary flight-control surface that increases wing camber, and often area, when extended.

Where it is
Along the inboard trailing edge of each wing in the generic transport-aircraft model.
What it does
Extension increases lift and drag so the aircraft can use lower speeds during takeoff and landing.
Relationship
The flap system moves both wing flaps together; leading-edge devices may extend as part of the same high-lift configuration.
Common confusion
A flap is not an aileron. Flaps normally move symmetrically for high lift, while ailerons move differentially for roll control.

Check yourself

Without looking back, can you explain where the trailing-edge flap 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

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