The student will write a 1,000-1,500 word research paper on the unique aerodynamic
characteristics of your favorite aircraft. Your paper should not discuss the capabilities of the
aircraft unless these capabilities pertain to the aircraft’s unique aerodynamic design. The topics
addressed in the Dole text provide specific aerodynamic areas to address as they relate to your
chosen aircraft. Unique characteristics might include:
· Airfoils and aerodynamic forces: unique airfoil design to enhance the airfoil’s purpose
(speed, lift, etc.)
· Lift/Drag: the relationship that lift and drag have to each other and the design
characteristics to optimize each
· Jet Aircraft/Propeller Aircraft: similarities and differences and their use in
commercial/military/missions aviation
· Slow-speed flight: how design enhances both performance and safety
· Maneuvering Performance: maneuverability/controllability relationship and its effect on
aircraft design
· Longitudinal, directional, and lateral stability and control: the relationship between each
during typical phases of flight
· High-speed flight: those aspects unique to airframe, engine performance, and the
challenges of flight from takeoff to landing
The paper must adhere to current APA formatting and include a title page and reference page
(neither of which are included in the word count). A minimum of 3 sources