The Main Parts of an Airplane
An airplane may look like one smooth machine, but it is really made of several main parts that each do a specific job.
2 min read
Flymap Learn
Aircraft & Systems
Understand what different aircraft parts and onboard systems do, from engines to cabin pressure.
How Jet Engines Work
Jet engines may sound complex, but the basic idea is surprisingly clear:
2 min read
Jet vs Turboprop
Jets and turboprops both power aircraft, but they are designed for different kinds of flying.
2 min read
What Flaps and Slats Do
During takeoff and landing, parts of the wing move into new positions.
2 min read
How Landing Gear Works
Landing gear is what allows an airplane to operate safely on the ground.
1 min read
Why Cabin Pressure Matters
At cruising altitude, the air outside the airplane is far too thin for people to breathe comfortably.
2 min read
How Airplane Air Conditioning Works
Air inside an airplane cabin does not simply come from outside like open-window ventilation.
2 min read
What the Black Box Really Is
The term black box sounds mysterious, but it refers to important recording devices carried on an aircraft.
1 min read
Why Planes Are Usually White
Many commercial airplanes are painted mostly white, and that is not just a style choice.
1 min read
How Airplane Lights Help at Night
Airplanes carry several different lights, and they are not all there for the same reason.
1 min read
How Spoilers Work
Spoilers are panels on the wing that can rise up into the airflow.
1 min read
How Reverse Thrust Works
After landing, many jet aircraft use reverse thrust to help slow down.
1 min read
What the APU Does
The APU, or auxiliary power unit, is a small engine carried on many aircraft.
1 min read