What are the advantages of flaps on an aircraft?

Flaps are crucial aerodynamic devices on an aircraft that enhance its performance during various phases of flight, particularly during takeoff and landing. One of the primary advantages of deploying flaps is their ability to allow the aircraft to fly at slower speeds while still maintaining adequate lift.

When flaps are extended, they increase the surface area and change the shape of the wing, which provides more lift at lower speeds. This capability is particularly important when an aircraft is preparing for landing, as it can descend more steeply without stalling, and allows for a lower landing speed. As a result, pilots can approach the runway more safely and efficiently, making landing operations smoother and more manageable.

In contrast, the other options address effects that do not align with the primary purpose of flaps. Increasing the overall speed of the aircraft or stabilizing it during turbulence are not direct effects of flap deployment. While flaps do create additional drag, their primary design is to enhance lift rather than significantly increase drag. Thus, option A accurately captures the primary advantage of flaps in aircraft operation.