Airplanes of the Future Could Be Fitted with Feather-Like Flaps

Engineers at Princeton University have used bioinspired flaps to improve aircraft stability.

The flaps are similar to covert feathers on a bird’s wing, which are arranged in layers, like overlapping shingles on a roof.

When a bird performs quick turns or landings, these covert feathers lift slightly, helping the bird control turbulence.

The research builds on a rich but dormant tradition of taking aviation inspiration from birds.

Researchers used lightweight plastic film to replicate feathers’ natural stiffness and mass.

They found that the added flaps enhanced lift by up to 45 percent , reduced drag by nearly 31 percent , and helped prevent the sudden loss of lift that causes stalling.

Such innovations require decades of research, and that integrating new solutions into existing fleets without disrupting operations remains a major challenge.

Birds are more agile, capable, and maneuverable than anything humans have built.

Scientists stress that the future of aircraft design must continue drawing inspiration from nature.

Even if they don't make it onto large commercial planes, Wissa says they could be game-changing for small aircraft, which are expected to play a major role in the future.