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Q:

How is a stunt plane able to make rapid flips while in air?

A:

Stunt planes need to be unstable so that their pilots can pull off those amazing stunts. They are usually smaller aircraft, and have an unbalanced center of gravity.

Airshow planes also have a specially shaped wing, so that the airfoil looks the same on both sides. So when it flips over, it will be able to have lift, and keep flying!

Ask an Explainer
Posted on December 12, 2014 at 8:08 am
Categories:
Flight Dynamics
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