What are flaps?

Flaps are movable panels located on the inboard trailing edges of the wings of an aircraft. Their primary function is to modify the wing's airfoil shape, which allows for an increase in lift at lower speeds. This increase in lift is particularly beneficial during takeoff and landing phases of flight. When deployed, flaps extend and change the wing's curvature, resulting in a larger surface area and altered airflow, which enhances the aircraft's ability to maintain lift at slower speeds.

This capability is essential for safe operations during the critical phases of flight, where maintaining optimal aerodynamic performance is crucial. Flaps can also help decrease the stall speed of an aircraft, allowing it to fly safely at lower airspeeds, thus aiding in controlled landings and takeoffs.