Fixed Wing Aeromechanics

What you will learn

On successful completion of this course you will be able to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the fundamental concepts of fixed- wing aerodynamics and flight mechanics,
• Relate the flight envelope and control surfaces to an aircraft’s trim and stability,
• Relate the principles of flight mechanics and the fundamental concepts of subsonic and supersonic aerodynamics to aircraft analysis.

Core content

• Aerodynamics: Fundamental definitions; basic fluid dynamics; basic aerodynamics; the origins of lift; drag subsonic flight speeds; compressible flow; transonic flight; supersonic flight; drag reduction in high-speed flight.
• Aerostructures: History of aircraft structural design developments; fundamental aerospace stress and structural analysis methods; structural layout methods; structural loads.
• Flight mechanics 1: Performance; airspeeds; cruise performance; mass definitions; climbing and descending flight; manoeuvres; take-off and landing; energy-height concept. 
• Flight mechanics 2: Trim, stability and control; longitudinal static stability; lateral/directional static stability; lateral dynamic stability; control methods.
• Tutorials.

Upgrade to a professional qualification

When taken as a Short Course for Credit, 10 credit points can be put towards the Military Aerospace and Airworthiness MSc.

Find out more about short course credit points.

Speakers

Dr Alistair Saddington
Dr Derek Bray

Concessions

A limited number of MOD sponsored places are available.