Vortex Generators

Vortex Generators are small triangles that are installed on the leading edge of the wing and control surfaces to improve the performance of the aircraft at low speeds, allowing take-off and landing significantly shorter. They decrease the stall speed and increase the response of the rudder and elevator at low speeds, and do not affect cruising speed or maximum speed. In the figures above we can see how vortex generators work: The first three upper pictures illustrate a conventional wing and the three below a wing with vortex generators installed. We see how in the second case the flow remains attached to the wing to higher angles of attack, meaning that continues to generate lift (if it is the main wing) or command (if tail).