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variable geometry wing

aeronautics
Also known as: swing wing

Learn about this topic in these articles:

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  • Air New Zealand Limited
    In airplane: Wing types

    Variable geometry (swing) wings can vary the sweep (i.e., the angle of a wing with respect to the plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the craft) of their wings in flight. These two types have primarily military applications, as does the oblique wing, in…

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Article History

wing, in aeronautics, an airfoil that helps lift a heavier-than-air craft. When positioned above the fuselage (high wings), wings provide an unrestricted view below and good lateral stability. Parasol wings, placed on struts high above the fuselage of seaplanes, help keep the engine from water spray.

Midwings, positioned in the middle of the fuselage, leave the airplane belly free of spars, with room for bombs or cargo. Placed below the fuselage, low wings reduce the height of the undercarriage and simplify engine maintenance.

The Editors of Encyclopaedia BritannicaThis article was most recently revised and updated by Adam Augustyn.
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