Definition
The action of moving the wing flaps from an extended position back to a retracted (stowed) position, reducing the wing's lift and drag and returning the wing to its clean configuration. During an instrument takeoff, premature or improperly timed flap retraction is a common error because it changes the airplane's pitch attitude and lift characteristics at a moment when the pilot is relying solely on instruments to maintain control.
Plain English
Pulling the flaps back up into the wing after takeoff. The flaps were lowered to help the airplane lift off; once climbing safely, the pilot raises them again. Doing this too early or too abruptly can upset the airplane, especially when the pilot is flying only by instruments.
Context Anchor
Seen in takeoff, climb, missed approach, and go-around procedures, including discussions of common errors during instrument takeoffs.
Derivation
From Latin retrahere, meaning 'to draw back.' To 'retract' the flaps is literally to draw them back into the wing.
Why Pilots Care
Poor timing or rate of retraction can cause sudden loss of lift, reduced climb performance, or unwanted pitch changes that are especially hazardous when flying solely by instruments.
Grounding Statement
When the flaps come up, the wing becomes cleaner but may make less lift at the same speed, so the airplane must be ready for the change.
Intuition Check
Do not think of flap retractions as simply “putting the flaps away.” In flight, each flap retraction is a control change that affects how the airplane climbs and feels.
Example Sentence 1
A common error during instrument takeoffs is initiating flap retractions before reaching a safe airspeed and altitude.
Example Sentence 2
Rapid flap retractions during the initial climb caused the airspeed to decay and triggered a stall warning in the clouds.