Definition
An abnormal condition in which the wing flaps cannot be extended or retracted at all, leaving them stuck in their current position (typically fully retracted) due to a mechanical, electrical, or hydraulic failure of the flap system.
Plain English
The flaps are stuck and will not move. The pilot has to land the airplane without being able to use them.
Context Anchor
Encountered during abnormal landing procedures, especially when the pilot selects flaps on approach and they do not extend.
Derivation
“Flap” originally referred to a loose or hinged piece that moves. In an airplane, flaps are hinged surfaces on the back of the wings. “Total” means the problem affects the flap system as a whole, not just one small part of it.
Why Pilots Care
It changes landing performance by increasing approach speed and landing distance while reducing drag and lift.
Grounding Statement
Picture turning toward the runway, moving the flap control, and seeing that the flaps stay where they are; the landing now has to be planned without their help.
Intuition Check
“Total flap failure” does not mean the airplane has lost all lift or all control. It means the flap system is not providing usable flap movement, so the pilot must use the correct no-flap or stuck-flap procedure.
Example Sentence 1
After a total flap failure on downwind, the pilot extended the pattern, flew a faster approach, and selected the longest available runway.
Example Sentence 2
With total flap failure, the aircraft requires a longer runway because the flaps cannot provide extra lift or drag.