What is the primary purpose of wing flaps?

The primary purpose of wing flaps is to adjust performance during takeoff and landing. Flaps are movable surfaces on the wings that can be extended to increase the wing's surface area and alter its aerodynamic characteristics. When deployed, flaps increase the lift generated by the wings at lower speeds, which is crucial for safe takeoff and landing operations.

By increasing lift at slower speeds, flaps allow an aircraft to take off and land on shorter runways, making these phases of flight safer and more efficient. This is particularly important for aircraft operating in environments with limited space or in conditions where a shorter landing distance is necessary, such as on wet or icy runways.

Other functions like controlling cabin temperature, enhancing passenger comfort, or increasing weight capacity are not related to the aerodynamic performance directly influenced by flaps; therefore, they do not contribute to the primary function of wing flaps during critical flight phases.