In multi-wing aircraft designs, the upper wing is rarely placed directly above the lower wing. Positioning the upper wing slightly forward of the lower wing improves the pilot's upward visibility and increases the combined lift by reducing aerodynamic interference between the airfoils. A backward offset is known as negative stagger.
Heard on the job
The negative stagger on this Beechcraft gives it that distinctive profile, but it changes the stall characteristics.
Also heard as
- positive stagger
- negative stagger
Related terms
Leading edge
The forward-facing contour of an airfoil that first meets the oncoming air.
Trailing edge
The rearmost margin of an airfoil where the upper and lower airflows rejoin.
Anhedral
The downward angle of an aircraft's wings relative to the horizontal plane.
Dihedral
The upward angle of an aircraft's wings relative to the horizontal plane.