STOL

aircraft class capable of take off and landing from surfaces of limited length

STOL refers to short take-off and landing aircraft. They only need a short runway for takeoff and landing. This type of aircraft is made to use short runways for take off and landing in high altitudes, hilly regions, and remote areas. [1]

A Zenair CH 701 STOL light aircraft

An STOL aircraft has a large wing for its weight. These wings often use aerodynamic devices like flaps, slots, slats, and vortex generators.[2] Typically, an STOL aircraft has lower maximum speed, but good payload lifting. The payload is critical, because many small, isolated communities rely on STOL aircraft for their transport link to the outside world.[2]

References

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  1. Wragg, David W. (1973). A Dictionary of Aviation (first ed.). Osprey. p. 242. ISBN 9780850451634.
  2. 2.0 2.1 "Powered Lift: Novel GTRI design would let commercial jets use smaller airports while reducing noise". Georgia Tech Research Institute. Retrieved 2010-10-28.