How Do These 5 Airplane Parts Work?

When people step on a plane, they often take for granted all the varying parts of the aircraft and how they work together. Some components like the wings and engines are obvious, while others are hidden under the surface but still provide vital functions. Read on to learn more about how these five airplane parts work. 

1. Fuselage

The fuselage is the cylindrical central body of the airplane that holds passengers, crew, cargo, and fuel. Aluminum alloy is the most common material used to build the fuselage, although carbon fiber-epoxy composite is beginning to be used in more passenger airplanes. 

2. Flight Deck

The flight deck, or cockpit, refers to the front of the plane where the pilot and co-pilot sit. The flight deck houses all of the flight instruments and radio communications used to safely fly an aircraft. Flight instruments control and display items such as altitude, wind direction and airspeed. 

3. Wings

Perhaps the most recognizable part of an airplane are its wings, which are used to generate lift. The combination of wing shape with airspeed is what enables the airplane to take off and stay in the air. Flaps and ailerons are attached to the wings and help the pilots direct and control the aircraft. 

4. Engines

While wings provide lift for the plane, the engines are attached by aerospace fittings and provide power to the flight controls and other components of the plane. Some of the more common types of engines on a plane include turbojet, turbofan and turboprop. 

5. Tail

The tail is located at the back of a plane and provides stability. A vertical stabilizer, rudder and elevator make up the pieces of the tail. The tail can also assist with the direction of the aircraft. 

The next time you board a plane, look for these five important components.