The Main Structural Components of an Aircraft

Harnessing the properties of aerodynamics to produce lift, heavier-than-air aircraft utilize specialized parts and designs to achieve such a feat. Composed of the cockpit, fuselage, wings, powerplant, tail, and landing gear, these components work together to help an aircraft take flight, land, and counteract the force of gravity. Generally categorized based on their wing configuration, aircraft and the parts that make up their body come in a diverse range of manufacturer shapes and models. Without any one of these items, flight would be rendered hazardous and unachievable, leaving the vehicle grounded. Below, to better understand the basics of flight, we will highlight the five major segments that make up an aircraft and how they function.

Fuselage

Comprising the body of the aircraft, the fuselage houses both the passengers and cargo. Attached to the front of the fuselage is the cockpit where the pilot(s) and all operating flight equipment are typically situated. Whether for rotorcraft, fixed-wing aircraft, and the like, the fuselage structure serves to connect parts such as the nose, engine, wings, tail, and other essential aircraft components together. Although fuselages vary in design, they are often separated from the nose and tail with the use of bulkheads.

Wings

Affixed to each side of the fuselage, wings, also known as airfoils, come in high-, mid-, and low-wing designs. Wings may also be affixed to the empennage and tail of the aircraft, functioning to assist a plane in flight based on the expected performance of the vehicle. Relying on forward momentum when in the air, airflow is capable of flowing faster over the top of aircraft wings to provide lift through a difference in air pressure. As the number of wings on an aircraft may vary, so too do their components. Depending upon the requirements of an operation and the applications an aircraft is intended to serve, various wing designs may be found on different models ranging from mono-wing, biplane, triplane types, and more. In many modern passenger aircraft, engines can also be found attached beneath the wings for improved resistance to drag. Wings of this variety typically consist of ailerons, spoilers, and flaps to adjust lift, drag, and roll.

Engine

Depending on the model of the aircraft, the engine, or powerplant, can be placed on different parts of the vehicle. Constructed in tandem with a propeller in some lighter models, aircraft propulsion systems primarily come in piston engine or gas turbine types. Providing more than just a source of electricity, the functional purpose of an engine also serves to aid vacuum components within flight instruments, regulate cabin air pressure, provide thrust, and various other in-flight functions.

Empennage

The tail, formally known as the empennage, helps maneuver an aircraft. Like the wings attached to the fuselage, smaller wings can be found affixed to the empennage that allow for increased control when in the air. Frequently coming with a vertical and horizontal stabilizer, these parts work together to keep an aircraft flying straight. Without these parts, the vehicle is exposed to direct forces that can impact its pitch, yaw, and roll.

Landing Gear

Capable of withstanding tremendous loads, different aircraft have varying models of landing gear best suited for their weight and landing types. Affixed to the bottom of the fuselage, landing gear is especially designed to withstand repeated abuse without compromising structural integrity. Coming in two standard forms, conventional landing gear and those with tricycle undercarriages, the latter is what is used most often when constructing modern aircraft. As these systems can create drag when fully suspended, they typically incorporate retractable features that can be controlled from the cockpit. 

Routine aircraft maintenance is critical when ensuring all components are functioning properly. For faulty or failing parts in need of replacement, Aviation Parts Online is here to help you find what you need. We are your trustworthy source for various aircraft noses & winglets, aviation wings, struts, elevators, trim tabs, stringers, and various other items and supplies. Due to our quality control and export compliance, we operate with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B certification and accreditation. If you would like to request a quote for your comparisons, you can submit an RFQ form as provided on our website. Upon receipt, a dedicated account manager will quickly review and respond with a personalized solution to your needs in just 15 minutes or less, 24/7x365.


Share


Recent Twitter Posts

Semiconductor's Certifications and Memberships
Thank You for Visiting!

Remember, If You Want A Competitive Quote for Parts In Fifteen Minutes Or Less, You Can Simply Fill Out the Request for Quote form On This Website’S Home Page.

Request for Quote

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.