Definition
The forward segment of a multi-section trailing-edge flap system. When the flap is extended, the fore flap moves down and aft from the main wing structure, opening a slot ahead of the mid and aft flap segments and increasing the wing's camber and area to produce more lift at lower airspeeds.
Plain English
On a wing with a flap that splits into several pieces when it deploys, the fore flap is the front piece — the one closest to the main wing. It slides out and tilts down to help the wing make more lift for takeoff and landing.
Context Anchor
Seen in discussions of wing design and high-lift devices, especially when comparing front-edge flaps with rear-edge flaps.
Derivation
Fore' is an old English word meaning 'in front of' or 'forward,' the same root used in 'forecast' and 'forward.' It identifies this flap segment as the forward-most one in a multi-piece flap assembly.
Why Pilots Care
Proper extension of the fore flap improves stall margin and reduces landing speed without excessive drag, directly affecting takeoff and landing performance calculations.
Intuition Check
Do not read fore flap as just any flap that happens to move forward. Here, fore means the flap is at the front edge of the wing.
Example Sentence 1
When the flaps are extended, the fore flap moves first, opening a slot that smooths airflow over the mid and aft flap segments behind it.
Example Sentence 2
During the after-landing checklist the crew verified that both fore flaps had fully retracted and locked in place.