What role do flaps play during the landing phase?

Flaps play a crucial role in the landing phase by increasing the lift generated by the wings at lower speeds, which allows the aircraft to maintain controlled flight closer to the ground. When flaps are extended during landing, they alter the wing's camber and increase the surface area, enhancing the airfoil's ability to produce lift. This modification allows the aircraft to operate safely at a slower airspeed, thereby lowering the stall speed, which is particularly important during the approach and landing phases when the aircraft is descending and typically flying at reduced speeds.

The ability to generate lift at lower speeds enables pilots to approach the runway at a steeper descent angle and helps facilitate a safer landing by increasing control and stability. It allows for a shorter landing distance, which can be critical especially in hostile environments or short runways. Thus, the correct understanding of the role of flaps in increasing lift and reducing stall speed highlights their essential function in the safe operation of the aircraft during landing.