Definition
The arrangement of an aircraft's external shape and movable surfaces at a given moment, including the position of flaps, landing gear, slats, spoilers, speed brakes, and any external stores. Each combination produces different lift, drag, and performance characteristics.
Plain English
How the aircraft is currently set up on the outside — gear up or down, flaps in or out, and so on. Each setup changes how the aircraft flies.
Context Anchor
Seen in performance discussions and charts where the airplane’s setup must match the conditions used to calculate takeoff, climb, cruise, or landing performance.
Derivation
From 'aerodynamic' (relating to how air flows around a body) and 'configuration' (the way parts are arranged). Together: the way the aircraft is arranged for moving through the air.
Why Pilots Care
Different configurations change an aircraft's performance limits, requiring adjusted speeds and distances for safe operations.
Grounding Statement
If part of the airplane is moved into the airflow, the airplane’s performance can change even though its weight and engine power have not changed.
Intuition Check
Aerodynamic configuration does not mean the airplane’s model, paint scheme, or general design. Here it means the airplane’s current physical setup as it meets the air.
Example Sentence 1
Stall speed is published for a clean aerodynamic configuration, so the actual stall speed will be lower with flaps extended.
Example Sentence 2
In the landing aerodynamic configuration the gear was down and flaps were fully extended.