Plain English Meaning

Movable panels on the front edge of the wing that slide forward to help the wing keep flying at slower speeds and steeper nose-up angles without stalling.

Full Definition

High-lift devices mounted along the leading edge of the wing that extend forward and slightly downward to increase the wing's effective camber and delay the airflow separation that causes a stall. Slats allow the wing to operate at higher angles of attack and lower airspeeds without stalling, improving lift during takeoff, landing, and low-speed maneuvering.

Context Anchor

Seen in discussions of high-speed , , and leading-edge lift devices.