Introduction Winglets are small, upturned extensions at the tips of an aircraft’s wings designed to improve aerodynamic efficiency. They reduce drag, enhance fuel economy, and contribute to smoother flight performance. Originally introduced in the 1970s, winglets have become a standard feature in modern aviation, significantly impacting both commercial and military aircraft. Illustration showing how winglets reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency by optimizing airflow patterns around aircraft wings. How Winglets Work Aircraft wings generate lift, but they also create wingtip vortices —spirals of air that form at the wing edges due to pressure differences. These vortices induce drag , reducing efficiency. Winglets counteract this effect by: 🔹 Reducing Vortex Strength – They minimize the swirling air at the wingtips, lowering induced drag. 🔹 Improving Lift-to-Drag Ratio – Less drag means better fuel efficiency and increased range. 🔹 Enhancing Stability – Winglets contribute to bet...