Leading-edge slot

A leading-edge slot on a STOL aircraft

A leading-edge slot is a fixed aerodynamic feature of the wing of some aircraft to reduce the stall speed and promote good low-speed handling qualities. A leading-edge slot is a spanwise gap in each wing, allowing air to flow from below the wing to its upper surface. In this manner they allow flight at higher angles of attack and thus reduce the stall speed.[1]

  1. ^ Kermode, A.C., Mechanics of Flight, Chapter 3