The Influence of The Wing Angle of Attack of NACA 2412 On Fuel Efficiency at Different Flight Speeds and The Determination of The Optimal Angle of Attack

Kaiwen Cao

doi:10.54097/1d7p8y94

Authors

Kaiwen Cao

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54097/1d7p8y94

Keywords:

AOA; NACA 2412; Aerodynamic efficiency; Fuel consumption; Flight performance.

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of the angle of attack (AOA) of the NACA 2412 airfoil on aircraft fuel efficiency across different flight speeds and determines the optimal AOA for maximum performance. Using a quantitative modeling approach implemented in Python, the research establishes an aerodynamic–fuel consumption relationship under steady, level flight conditions (lift = weight, thrust = drag). The model draws on validated aerodynamic parameters from NASA and FAA reports to ensure reliability. Simulation results show that at low speed (200 km/h), fuel efficiency remains relatively insensitive to AOA variation, indicating greater operational tolerance during takeoff and climb. However, at high speed (800 km/h), even small deviations from the optimal AOA (approximately −2.2°) lead to a rapid, nonlinear increase in drag and fuel consumption. These findings confirm that precise AOA control is crucial for high-speed cruise efficiency. The study contributes to the limited body of research linking aerodynamic parameters directly to energy use, providing a replicable framework for integrating AOA optimization into flight trajectory planning, autonomous control systems, and sustainable aviation strategies.

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