The four forces.
Every aircraft in flight has exactly four forces acting on it. Understanding each force — and how the pairs balance — is the foundation of all flight analysis.
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Terms
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Lift
Aerodynamic force perpendicular to the relative wind, generated by the wings. Opposes weight.
Drag
Aerodynamic resistance opposing forward motion through the air. Opposes thrust.
Thrust
The forward force produced by the propulsion system. Opposes drag.
Weight
Gravitational force pulling the aircraft toward Earth's center. Opposes lift.