Homework

AVIA 305

Essay Instructions

Throughout this course, you will write five 300–350-word essays in response to the questions presented by the instructor. Each essay requires thorough analysis and coherent, well-developed answers. Use current APA formatting for this submission. A title page is not required. Submit each essay as a Microsoft Word document in the appropriate assignment link by the end of the assigned module/week.

Essay 1

Essay: Lift and Drag

Explain what affect an increase in airspeed has on lift, as well as on drag, both induced and parasite. Include in your answer the “why” for your answer. Consideration should be given to the lift and drag equation, Bernoulli, Newton, The Continuity Equation, and any other concept discussed in the text.

Essay 2

Essay: Jet Aircraft Performance

Regarding thrust-producing engines, discuss the dilemma between performance versus efficiency, referencing the propulsion efficiency equation in the textbook. Include the two concerns discussed in the chapter regarding performance and efficiency. Does an increase in one result in a decrease in the other? How have different engine designs affected the performance and efficiency of thrust-producing engines today?

Essay 3

Essay: Propeller Aircraft Performance

Until recently many of the regional airlines used power-producing aircraft for their shorter routes and thrust-producing aircraft for their longer routes. Provide an aerodynamic reason for this practice. Both performance and efficiency concerns should be discussed. Why have many commuter airlines transitioned to thrust-producing aircraft for these shorter routes?

Essay 4

Essay: Slow Speed Flight

Using the NTSB document provided in this week's Reading & Study folder, examine the Montrose Colorado takeoff accident (NTSB/AAB-06/03) and explain what effect the icing condition had on takeoff performance.  Discuss how the pilot’s normal training for performing a takeoff in this aircraft may have contributed to this accident (e.g., aircraft attitude).  Also, comment on whether the aircrew could have done anything different once airborne to prevent this accident from occurring and why it would have been successful.

Essay 5

Essay: Take Off, Landing, and Maneuvering Performance

Examine the Southwest Airlines Flight 1248 landing accident (NTSB/AAR-07/06). Explain the series of events that led to the runway overrun. Discuss the manner in which the approach to landing and landing was flown, as well as the aircrew’s interpretation of the runway surface condition reported and what precautions should be taken for the reported condition. Also, comment on whether the aircraft could have performed this landing safely and what they needed to do differently in order for this to occur.