Aviation explained

How flying actually works

Plain-English explanations of the aviation concepts every curious flyer wonders about.

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What's inside this topic

Why planes fly

The basic physics behind getting airborne

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Cabin pressure & altitude

Why cabins are pressurized, and what happens if they weren't

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ETOPS & long-haul routes

How twin-engine jets safely cross oceans

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Turbulence explained

What's actually happening when the seatbelt sign turns on

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Aircraft design quirks

Why windows are round, and seats recline

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Pilots & navigation

How pilots find their way, day or night

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