page_title: Variable-incidence wing
hierarchical_section_title: Variable-incidence wing
caption_attribution_description: A U.S. Navy Vought RF-8A Crusader (BuNo 146846) of Photographic Reconnaissance Squadron 63 (VFP-63) Det. A "Eyes of the Fleet" approaches for a landing aboard the attack aircraft carrier USS Midway (CVA-41), circa in 1961-1962. Note: The date given (1 September 1968) has to be incorrect, as the Midway was not in service then. The Piasecki HUP Retriever plane guard helicopter visible in the background points to the fact that this photo was taken in the early 1960s, since Kaman UH-2 Seasprite helicopters replaced the HUP aboard Midway in 1963. Also, VFP-63 was designated VCP-63 before 1 July 1961.[1]
context_page_description: A variable-incidence wing has an adjustable angle of incidence relative to its fuselage. This allows the wing to operate at a high angle of attack for take-off and landing while allowing the fuselage to remain close to horizontal.
  The pivot mechanism adds extra weight over a conventional wing and increases costs, however in some applications the benefits can outweigh the costs.
  Several examples have flown, with one, the F-8 Crusader carrier-borne jet fighter, entering production.
context_section_description: A variable-incidence wing has an adjustable angle of incidence relative to its fuselage. This allows the wing to operate at a high angle of attack for take-off and landing while allowing the fuselage to remain close to horizontal.
  The pivot mechanism adds extra weight over a conventional wing and increases costs, however in some applications the benefits can outweigh the costs.
  Several examples have flown, with one, the F-8 Crusader carrier-borne jet fighter, entering production.
caption: An RF-8 Crusader using its variable-incidence wing during a landing approach
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