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Feather-inspired airplane flaps could boost flight performance

Rows of the flaps improve airfoil lift, reduce drag and mitigate stall

A pelican in flight shows how its wings have many overlapping rows of feathers

The overlapping rows of covert feathers on this brown pelican’s wings can be distinguished by their light gray color. Imitations of these tufts could help improve aircraft flight performance.

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By Nikk Ogasa

Airplane plumage might be the next big thing in aviation.

Bird wings are contoured with overlapping rows of feathery tufts, spreading out from near the shoulder.