THEORY of

FLIGHT
General Orientation

FEATI University
Department of
Aeronautics
Prepared by Engr. Jam Cay D. Delfin
COURSE DESCRIPTION
This introductory aeronautics course presents a structured journey through the history
of flight, from its roots in ballooning to the complexities of modern aircraft and
helicopters. Split into three blocks, it covers foundational aspects such as aircraft
structure, the Earth's atmosphere, stability, navigation, and propulsion. Moving deeper
into the principles of aerodynamics, it explores how wing shapes and airfoils impact lift
generation. The course then delves into flight mechanics, analyzing various flight
phases like descent, climb, and cruise, while emphasizing the optimal conditions
necessary for each phase. Ultimately, it offers a comprehensive understanding of
aeronautical principles, guiding learners to grasp the dynamics behind flight and the
conditions that lead to optimal performance throughout the different stages of flight.

Engr. JCDD
WHAT YOU WILL LEARN FROM THIS COURSE
1. Comprehend the entire development of aviation, spanning from the initial era of
balloon flight to the intricate advancements seen in modern airplanes and helicopters.
2. Grasp the foundational physics behind flight, encompassing aerodynamics and fluid
dynamics crucial for comprehending aerial maneuvering.
3. Gain basic knowledge in aerodynamics, specifically how wing shapes and airfoils
impact lift generation and aircraft design.
4. Explore how aircraft design elements affect efficiency, stability, and overall
performance.
5. Acquire practical experience in creating and simulating basic aerodynamic shapes
and objects, applying theoretical knowledge to understand aerodynamic behaviors.

Engr. JCDD
COURSE OUTCOMES
At the end of the course the student should be able to:

● General knowledge of history of aeronautics

● An understanding of the basic physical principles of flight
● Basic knowledge of aerodynamics / fluid dynamics
● General understanding of how the design of an aircraft influences
performance
● Create and simulate basic aerodynamic shapes and objects
● Understand and conform with the defined policies and requirements to create
a conducive learning environment

Engr. JCDD
COURSE POLICIES
1. The class will now be full onsite with options for online classes. Thus students are expected to come onsite as
well.
2. Do not be late as we will start exactly on time. More than 15 mins late without a valid excuse will be marked as
absent.
3. Expect activities at every end of the lecture to validate what you learned for that specific topic or module.
4. Sharing of lecture materials outside this course is strictly prohibited. Students caught doing so may be
penalized based on the student handbook.
5. We expect your full cooperation and honesty when answering the activities of this course. Any form of cheating
will be penalized based on the severity of the case.
6. Only one unexcused absence per term, and total of three unexcused absence. All absences will only be
excused if there is an letter stating the reasons with evidence (medical certificate, death certificate, etc.)

Engr. JCDD
GRADING SYSTEM

Engr. JCDD
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
FEATI MAIL

Everyone is required to use their FEATI mail in sending files, doing communication, calendar, and monitoring announcements from the instructor.

ZOOM

Course instructions, lectures, and even monitoring of activities shall be done in Zoom only and will be recorded. Make sure to have zoom on all your devices.
Take note that attendance and participation via zoom may also count as your recitation.

MOODLE

All activities, and reports with exceptions to on-site exams shall be turned in the provided link in moodle.

QUIZ/ACTIVITY

There are quizzes or activities during or after a module is completed. Students who failed to take the quiz or activity for that schedule will not be allowed to take
makeup quizzes anymore.

WRITTEN EXAMS & FINAL REPORT/PRESENTATION

Every student is required to take all the written exams. For the final report, failure to submit it within the given period will either merit a grade of 5.0 or INC. The
format of the report shall be provided later by the instructor.

Engr. JCDD
COURSE OUTLINE
PRELIM
1. Introduction to Aeronautical Engineering
2. Ballooning
3. International Standard Atmosphere
4. Theory of Flight
MIDTERM
1. Navigation
2. Structure
3. Stability and Control
FINALS
1. Propulsion
2. Materials and Limits
3. Special Vehicles

Engr. JCDD
COURSE OUTLINE
PRELIM
> Balloon Challenge
MIDTERM
> Paper Plane
FINALS
> Water Rocket
> Paper Submission

Engr. JCDD
REFERENCES
Note all references will be available in the University E-Library System starting this school year.
● B12132 - Anderson, David F. Understanding Flight. Dover. McGraw-Hill. 2010
● B14403 – Anderson, David F. Introduction to Flight. McGraw-Hill. 2008
● B13346 – Jeppesen. 2007
● B14493- Wagtendonk, Walter J. Principles of Helicopter Flight. 2006
● B03991 – Illman, Paul E. Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge. 1991

Engr. JCDD