Measure of Aerodynamic Properties using Angle of Attack (AOA) Indicator
An Angle of Attack (AoA) indicator shows the angle between the aircraft’s wing and the oncoming airflow. It helps pilots avoid stalls by indicating when the wing is approaching its critical angle of attack, regardless of airspeed.
Angle of Attack
- Angle of Attack (AOA) is the angle between the wing chord line and the direction of the relative airflow.
- As the angle of attack increases, lift also increases up to a critical angle.
- Beyond the critical angle, drag increases rapidly.
- Further increase in the angle of attack can cause the aircraft to stall.
Angle of Attack Indicator
- The Angle of Attack Indicator provides a visual indication of the aircraft’s angle of attack.
- It is commonly used as part of the stall warning system.
- AOA sensors are typically mounted on the sides of the forward fuselage.
Types of Angle of Attack Sensors
- There are two main types of Angle of Attack sensors:
- Slotted Probe Type: Measures changes in air pressure to determine the angle of attack.
- Floating Vane Type: Measures changes in the direction of the relative airflow.