Short-coupled aircraft

A short-coupled aircraft or close-coupled aircraft is an aircraft design characterized by a relatively short distance between the wing and empennage (tail assembly). This configuration affects the aircraft's longitudinal stability and control characteristics. [1]

## Contents

* 1 Design characteristics
* 2 Aircraft types
* 3 Aerodynamic implications
* 4 References

## Design characteristics

In a short-coupled aircraft, the reduced distance between the wing and tail means the empennage must generate greater stabilizing forces to maintain aircraft balance. This often requires a larger tail surface area compared to conventional aircraft designs. The shorter moment arm can make the aircraft more sensitive to pilot-induced oscillation, potentially increasing the complexity of flight control.

## Aircraft types

Aircraft designs that frequently exhibit short-coupling include:

* Tandem wing configurations
* Many flying wing aircraft
* Specific aircraft models such as the Flying Flea and Saab Viggen

## Aerodynamic implications

The short-coupled design presents both challenges and potential advantages in aircraft engineering, influencing factors such as maneuverability, stability, and overall performance.

## References

1. ↑ "Challenges of Flying Floatplanes: Design Considerations Like Short-Coupling". Model Aeronautics Association of Canada. https://www.maac.ca/en/articles_details.php?id=3.

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