What increases the camber of an aircraft wing?

Increasing the camber of an aircraft wing is primarily achieved through the use of leading-edge flaps. When leading-edge flaps are deployed, they change the shape of the wing by increasing its curvature, or camber. This modification enhances the wing's aerodynamic properties, allowing the aircraft to generate more lift at lower airspeeds. The additional lift is particularly beneficial during takeoff and landing phases when the aircraft is operating at slower velocities and requires optimal lift performance to maintain flight.

The function of leading-edge flaps is critical, as they also help delay flow separation over the wing, contributing to improved stall characteristics. This enhancement in performance is especially vital during approaches and landings when the aircraft needs to maintain flight stability with reduced speed.

Other elements, like winglets, flap settings, and slats, play significant roles in various aspects of wing performance but do not directly contribute to increasing the camber in the same manner that leading-edge flaps do. Winglets primarily improve lift-to-drag ratio and reduce induced drag, flap settings increase lift but do not alter the wing's curvature as effectively as leading-edge flaps, and slats enhance airflow over the wing, but likewise do not modify camber in the same way.