flygteori

Flygteori, or flight theory, is the branch of aeronautical science that studies the principles governing the flight of aircraft. It examines how air interacts with moving surfaces to generate lift, how forces such as weight, thrust, and drag balance during different flight phases, and how control inputs influence the trajectory and orientation of an aircraft.

Key topics include aerodynamics, stability and control, propulsion, and flight performance, along with flight dynamics that describe how an aircraft moves through air in six degrees of freedom. Subfields address fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, and unmanned aerial systems.

Methods and tools used in flygteori encompass analytical modeling, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), wind tunnel testing, and flight testing. Simulations support the design, optimization, and certification of aircraft and the training of pilots. The theory also covers environmental and operational limits, such as stall, takeoff and landing performance, and the effects of turbulence.

History and scope: Flygteori developed from early aerodynamics studies and experiments and became formalized with the rise of aeronautical engineering in the 20th century. It underpins activities from aircraft design and performance assessment to flight safety, air traffic management, and pilot education, and it continues to evolve with advances in materials, propulsion, and automation.