Several types of aircraft are available in the aviation industry to fulfill different purposes. These purposes vary from fulfilling personal flying hobbies to meeting commercial needs. Whatever the type of aircraft might be, a professional aviation welding company is capable of dealing with different components and aspects of an aircraft in the best way possible.
The primary focus of this blog is to discuss high-wing aircraft vs. low-wing aircraft so that you can learn all the pros and cons of such aircraft. This will help you choose the best aircraft for yourself.
What Is A High Wing Aircraft?
A high-wing aircraft is one in which the wings are located above the fuselage. The Cessna 172 is the most popular example of a high-wing aircraft in the aviation industry. Most of these aircraft have a relatively flat wing.
What Is A Low Wing Aircraft?
A low-wing aircraft is one in which the wings are placed lower than the fuselage. Most such aircraft have wings whose tips are angled upward to enhance the lateral stability of the entire plane. A popular example of a low-wing aircraft is the Piper Cherokee.
Also Read: General Information About Aircraft Engine Overhauls
Differences
The aviation industry has a mixture of low-wing and high-wing aircraft. Most commercial aircraft nowadays have low wings, but planes with high-wing configurations are also operating.
A common criticism of commercial high-wing aircraft engines is that their components are difficult to check and maintain due to their unique positioning. However, this issue can be avoided by relying on professional aviation welding technicians for thorough and reliable inspections.
Let’s discuss the differences between high-wing aircraft and low-wing in terms of three major factors:
1. Fuel System
High-wing aircraft have an advantage over low-wing aircraft when it comes to fuel systems. High-wing aircraft can use gravity to ensure sufficient fuel pressure. On the other hand, low-wing aircraft must have a fuel pump to pressurize the fuel and transfer it to the engine.
Some high-winged planes also use fuel pumps for better efficiency, but are not required to do so. In a low-winged plane, a boost pump is typically utilized during the startup, takeoff, and landing stages. Almost all of the aircraft also have boost pumps for emergencies.
2. Comfort
Low-wing aircraft offer a lowerer comfort level than high-wing aircraft. In most low-wing planes, the pilot and the passenger have to climb the wing to get in and get out of the plane.
For instance, the Piper Cherokee has only one door on the right side of the plane. Therefore, the pilot must enter the aircraft first, and then the passenger can enter the plane. They also have to climb over the seats to reach the seats. Some of the latest low-wing aircraft have a lift canopy to make this entire process a little easier, but still, the seating adjustment of high-wing aircraft is more comfortable.
3. Repair And Maintenance
Some standards in the aviation industry must be followed during the repair and maintenance of different types of aircraft. However, hiring the services of professional aviation welding technicians becomes important due to the practical differences between low-wing and high-wing aircraft.
Commercial airplanes, especially, require thorough maintenance to ensure compliance with legal requirements. The position of the wings has a significant impact on the quality and accessibility of the aircrafts components.
For example, the majority of commercial aircraft have low wings, so it is easier for the repair crew and aviation welding technicians to reach its components, like the engine and landing gear.
On the other hand, a ladder or some type of elevation platform is required to repair and maintain high-wing aircraft. It can be a dangerous procedure for inexperienced and untrained individuals, so it is always better to rely on experienced aviation welding technicians to take care of your high-wing aircraft.
About Acorn Welding
Acorn Welding is a well-established aviation company that provides comprehensive repair and maintenance services for all types of aircraft, including low-winged and high-winged planes.
If you are looking for the best aviation welding technicians or want a high-quality component for your aircraft, you can contact us today!
