Which term refers to the forward wing of a canard configuration and may be fixed, movable, or variable geometry surface with or without control surfaces?

• A. Canard
• B. Canard Configuration
• C. Balloon
• D. Area Navigation (RNAV)

Answer: (A)

The forward lifting surface in a canard arrangement is called a canard. This forewing sits ahead of the main wing and can be fixed, movable, or have variable geometry, with or without its own control surfaces. The canard’s job is to contribute lift and influence the aircraft’s pitching moment, helping to trim and stabilize the airplane. The term canard configuration refers to the overall layout that uses this forward wing along with the main wing and tail, rather than the specific forward wing itself. Balloons and RNAV are unrelated to this aerodynamic feature.