12.70 Airframe Structure

12.70.2 Identify and explain the basic function of the major components of a conventional airframe.

The major components of a conventional airframe are the fuselage, wings, empennage (tail assembly), landing gear, and powerplant.

1. Fuselage

• The main body of the aircraft
• Provides attachment points for the wings, tail assembly, landing gear, and engine
• Houses the cockpit, passengers, cargo, and systems
• Designed to provide strength while maintaining a streamlined shape

2. Wings

• Produce lift to support the aircraft in flight
• Usually contain components such as ailerons, flaps, and sometimes fuel tanks
• Designed to provide efficient aerodynamic performance

3. Empennage (Tail Assembly)
Provides stability and control.

It consists of:

• Horizontal stabiliser: Provides longitudinal (pitch) stability
• Elevator: Controls pitch attitude
• Vertical stabiliser (fin): Provides directional (yaw) stability
• Rudder: Controls yaw
• Trim tabs (if fitted): Reduce control forces