Course Description

Introduction to Aeronautics (APPEL-I-AERO)

 

Audience

This course is designed for anyone interested in a big-picture overview of aeronautics. No technical background is necessary.

 

Goal

This four-day course is all about aircraft—how they fly, and why they look the way they do. Using design as a common thread, this course provides a solid understanding of the basics of aeronautical engineering, including low- and high-speed aerodynamics, stability and control, structures and materials, propulsion systems, and aircraft performance.

Although the focus is clearly on conventional aircraft, discussion will include other air vehicles including airships, helicopters, stealth, hypersonic, unmanned, short takeoff and landing (STOL) vehicles, and microair vehicles. At the end of this course, participants will be able to identify and understand the design features of an aircraft and have an appreciation for the impact of modifying its design (for example, adding tip tanks).

 

Learning Methods

Lectures, hands-on exercises, practical examples, and discussions are employed to support the lesson objectives. In addition, an off-site visit to a local aircraft museum, airport, or aero club reinforces the classroom discussions.

 

Everything in this course was valuable. I have a better understanding of lift, drag, and thrust, and I have better insight to propulsion.

Specific Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:.

• Explain why standard atmosphere is important in the field of aeronautics.
• Define lift and drag, explain how lift is generated, and identify the various components of drag.
• Explain why an aircraft "stalls" at a high angle of attack.
• Describe how flow properties change across a shock wave and an expansion wave.
• Describe design techniques used to minimize drag due to lift and wave drag.
• Explain the significance of (L/D) max and locate (L/D) max on a drag-versus-velocity graph.
• Identify high-lift devices and state their purpose.
• Name the aircraft axes, the motion of each, and the conventional control surface(s) that produce each motion as well as describe the pilot's input.
• Identify design and operational factors that contribute to achieving pitch stability.
• Describe the structural considerations and elements of a given aircraft.
• Explain how thrust is generated and demonstrate an understanding of the trade-offs associated with aircraft/engine integration.
• Identify and explain the impact of six factors (e.g., density altitude) on takeoff and landing performance.

Competencies and Technical Areas Addressed

• Aeronautics
• Aircraft Aerodynamics
• Aircraft Design Fundamentals
• Aircraft Performance
• Propulsion Systems
• Stability and Control