How do T/O and LDG flaps affect lift and drag?

T/O flaps, or takeoff flaps, are designed to optimize the aircraft's performance during takeoff by increasing lift significantly while minimizing the increase in drag. Their configuration alters the airfoil shape to allow the aircraft to generate more lift at lower speeds, which is critical for safely taking off. This means that during the takeoff phase, pilots can achieve the necessary lift without encountering excessive drag, enabling a smoother and more efficient ascent from the runway.

On the other hand, LDG flaps, or landing flaps, increase both lift and drag, but they do so in a manner that is especially suited for landing approaches. While landing flaps also increase lift, their primary role is to provide additional drag, which allows the airplane to approach and land at slower speeds. This added drag enables a steeper descent path and helps in controlling the approach speed, ensuring that the aircraft can land safely and within a shorter distance.

Thus, the correct understanding of the effects of T/O and LDG flaps is that takeoff flaps increase lift with minimal drag, facilitating a safe departure. Conversely, landing flaps maximize drag to aid in slowing the aircraft down effectively while also providing the necessary lift to maintain controlled flight during landing.