Inspired by bird feathers, researchers at the University of Princeton have installed rows of flaps on a remote control aircraft, which can enhance flight during maneuvers such as landing or turbulence. These rows of flaps are covert feathers, naturally found on the bird wings. Adding multiple flaps to an airplane improved lift by 45% and reduced drag by 30%.
Nature-inspired feathers enhance aircraft performance and stall control
Bird-inspired rows of flaps can improve flight performance