Welcome to Episode 4 of FAA Decoded, where we unravel the science behind flight in this deep dive into the Principles of Flight! Whether you’re an aspiring pilot or an aviation enthusiast, understanding the forces that keep aircraft aloft is essential. In this episode (running approximately 40 minutes), we explore the structure of the atmosphere, the fluid properties of air, and key concepts like viscosity, friction, and atmospheric pressure. Discover how these natural laws influence aircraft performance and learn about the critical role of pressure altitude and density altitude.

We break down Newton’s Three Laws of Motion and Bernoulli’s Principle of Differential Pressure, explaining how they contribute to lift generation. Dive into airfoil design — from the shape of wings to the effects of angle of attack and tip vortices — and see how modern engineering, like winglets, enhances flight efficiency. This episode equips you with the foundational knowledge to master the skies, drawing from the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge and resources like NASA’s Beginner’s Guide to Aerodynamics.

Subscribe to stay tuned for more aviation insights, and leave a review on Apple Podcasts to share your thoughts! Have questions about aerodynamics or flight principles? Drop them in the comments or send us a message — we’re eager to engage with you!