Which type of flap system is designed to increase both wing area and wing chamber?

The flap system that is engineered to increase both wing area and wing camber is the Fowler flap. This design extends backward and downward from the wing, effectively increasing the surface area of the wing while also augmenting its camber, or curvature. As it extends, the Fowler flap creates a larger upper surface area, which contributes to enhanced lift at slower speeds—an essential characteristic for takeoff and landing phases of flight. This makes it particularly advantageous for aircraft that require improved aerodynamic performance during low-speed maneuvers.

The operation of Fowler flaps allows them to move not only downward but also outward, which results in a significant change in wing profile. This dual action is crucial for enhancing lift without significantly increasing drag, which is beneficial for overall aircraft performance.

Other flap types, while serving their respective purposes, do not contribute to both an increase in wing area and camber in the same way. Slotted flaps, for instance, primarily enhance airflow control but do not effectively expand wing area. Split flaps provide a simpler design but mainly increase drag with limited area change. Flaperons, which combine the functionality of flaps and ailerons, do not specifically focus on increasing wing area or camber in the same manner as Fowler flaps