Leading edge devices are high lift devices found on the leading edge. Which of the following is a typical type?

• A. Fixed slots, movable slats, and leading edge flaps
• B. Ailerons, elevators, and rudders
• C. Spoilers and airbrakes
• D. Flaps on the trailing edge

Answer: (A)

Leading edge devices are high-lift systems placed on the wing’s front edge to boost lift at low speeds and delay stall. A typical type includes fixed slots, movable slats, and leading edge flaps. Fixed slots are built-in gaps that allow air to flow from beneath the wing to the upper surface at higher angles, helping maintain smooth airflow. Movable slats extend forward to create or widen a slot, energizing the airflow over the wing and increasing lift. Leading edge flaps deploy to increase the wing’s curvature (camber), producing more lift during takeoff and landing.

Other wing devices like ailerons, elevators, and rudders are primary control surfaces for controlling roll, pitch, and yaw, not high-lift devices on the leading edge. Spoilers and airbrakes reduce lift, and flaps on the trailing edge are not on the leading edge. Therefore, the combination of fixed slots, movable slats, and leading edge flaps represents typical leading edge high-lift devices.