Aerodynamics


The science of the action of air on an object, and with the motion of air on other gases. Aerodynamics deals with the production of lift by the aircraft, the relative wind, and the atmosphere.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (definition from the FAA-H-8083-25B, 2016; current: FAA-H-8083-25C, 2023, with the October 2025 addendum).

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Glossary last updated 2026-10-28.