Airbus 320 question (real life question)

[davidc2]

On my trip back to Jacksonville yesterday, I took off from Denver airport in an Airbus 320 headed for ORD.

My question about the Airbus 320 is this (yes, it is a newbie type question), I somehow always manage to sit just behind the wing and I noticed what I can only describe as "pylons" hanging attached to the bottom of the wing (3 on each wing) and I was wondering what they were for.

Also, why do some planes have winglets and others don't? What do they do??


Thanks all!!!

[DLR_41]

Hi..
The pylons you are asking about are what is called the flap track fairings. they are there for nothing more than aerodynamic efficiency. the flaps have a carriage mounted on them that have rollers and the rollers slide up and down the track as the flaps are extended and retracted. Winglets on the other hand are installed for economy. they increase lift, wing area and make the aircraft more fuel efficient. they also allow for shorter take offs and landings. you will notice them on alot of STOL aircraft.

[davidc2]

Thanks!!!!