An overview of concepts for aircraft drag reductions

A current overview of aerodynamic drag reduction concepts which have potential for reducing aircraft fuel consumption is presented. The discussion shows where the greatest percentages of aircraft fuel is burned and what areas have the greatest potential for fuel conservation. The paper deals with aerodynamic improvements and touches only briefly on structural and propulsion improvements. Concepts for reducing pressure drag (i.e., roughness, wave, interference, and separation drag), drag due to lift/induced drag, and skin-friction drag at subsonic and supersonic speeds are emphasized.