The Illustrated Guide to Aerodynamics

Most pilots and student pilots wince at the mention of the term "aerodynamics" because most courses and books deal with the subject using complicated scientific theory and intricate mathematical formulas. And yet, an understanding of aerodynamics is essential to the people who operate and maintain airplanes.

Hubert "Skip" Smith demonstrates how aerodynamic factors affect all aircraft in terms of lift, thrust, drag, in-air performance, stability, and control - and he does so without a lot of technical jargon and complex calculations!

Readers also get an inside look at how modern aircraft are designed - including all the steps in the design process, from concept to test-flight and the reasoning behind them.

This edition features expanded coverage of aircraft turning and accelerated climb performance, takeoff velocities, load and velocity-load-factors, area rules, and hypersonic flight, as well as the latest advances in laminar flow airfoils, wing and fuselage design, and high-performance lightplanes.

Question and answer sections are added for classroom use.