What Are Canards and How Do They Work on Aircraft?

Canards are a type of airfoil that is mounted on the wing of an aircraft, typically near the leading edge. They are used to improve the stability and control of the aircraft during flight. Canards are often used on high-performance aircraft, such as fighter jets and racing planes, where they help to increase maneuverability and reduce stall speeds.

The main purpose of canards is to provide additional lift and control during takeoff and landing, as well as during tight turns and other maneuvers. By mounting the canards near the leading edge of the wing, they can help to improve the airflow over the wing and reduce drag, which can improve the overall performance of the aircraft.

There are several different types of canards that can be used on an aircraft, including:

1. Fixed canards: These are mounted in a fixed position on the wing and do not move or adjust during flight.
2. Movable canards: These are mounted on a hinge and can be moved up or down to adjust the angle of attack of the wing.
3. Variable-geometry canards: These are designed to change shape or angle during flight to optimize performance.
4. Leading-edge devices: These are similar to canards, but are mounted on the leading edge of the wing instead of near the trailing edge.

Overall, canards are an important feature on many high-performance aircraft, and they play a key role in improving stability, control, and overall performance.