Definition
The forward-facing edges of an airfoil — typically the wing, horizontal stabilizer, and vertical stabilizer — that meet the oncoming airflow first as the airplane moves through the air. Their shape and condition directly affect how smoothly air flows over the surface and how lift is produced.
Plain English
The front edges of the wings and tail surfaces — the parts that hit the air first as the airplane flies forward.
Context Anchor
Seen during preflight inspection and in descriptions of the wing, tail section, and control surfaces.
Derivation
Leading' here means 'going first' — the edge that leads the rest of the surface into the air. Same sense as 'leading the way.'
Why Pilots Care
These surfaces directly influence lift production, stall behavior, and ice accumulation; damage or contamination here can alter handling and increase stall speed.
Intuition Check
Leading does not mean the most important edge. Here, it means the front edge that reaches the oncoming air first.
Example Sentence 1
During preflight, the pilot ran a hand along the leading edges of both wings to check for dents or frost.
Example Sentence 2
The rounded shape of the leading edges helps maintain smooth airflow over the wing at higher angles of attack.