Definition
The selectable positions of the wing flaps, expressed in degrees of deflection or by named detents (such as UP, 10°, 20°, FULL), that the pilot chooses for a given phase of flight to produce a specific combination of lift and drag. The appropriate flap setting for any maneuver is established by the airplane manufacturer and published in the Pilot's Operating Handbook (POH) or Airplane Flight Manual (AFM).
Plain English
How far down the flaps are extended. The pilot picks the position the manufacturer recommends for what they're about to do — taking off, climbing, approaching, or landing.
Context Anchor
Seen in takeoff and landing procedures, especially when the airplane’s approved manual gives a specific flap position for a short-field takeoff.
Derivation
“Flap” comes from an old word for something that moves or hangs loosely. “Setting” means a chosen position. Together, “flap settings” points to the chosen position of the wing flaps.
Why Pilots Care
Selecting the correct flap setting directly determines whether the airplane meets the published short-field takeoff distance and climb performance; an incorrect setting can result in an overrun or insufficient obstacle clearance.
Intuition Check
Flap settings are not a casual preference. In this context, the phrase means the specific flap position required or recommended for the situation and airplane.
Example Sentence 1
Before starting the short-field takeoff roll, the pilot confirmed the flap setting matched the value listed in the POH.
Example Sentence 2
On final approach the pilot extended to full flap settings to achieve the required approach speed over the 50-foot obstacle.