Title: Describe factors that affect aircraft design.
Course: Aerospace Technology II (21055-II) > Section: Designing Aircraft

Description should include

- the characteristics of materials (e.g., density, weight, tensile strength) used in the construction of aircraft, such as aluminum and composites as well as fasteners
- purpose
- payload
- travel distance and durability requirements
- propulsion
- cost (to build and to operate)
- serviceability and maintenance
- recycling, reconstruction, reuse factors.

Process/Skill Questions:

- Why is it important to know the payload quantity and type before designing the aircraft?
- What types of reusable materials might be used in aircraft construction?
- How does knowing the purpose of the aircraft help determine the final design?
- Why would a glider wing be different than a high-speed, cross-country airplane wing?
- What factors contribute to the stability of the aircraft?
- Why is stability an important characteristic of aircraft design?