What are 'flaps' on an aircraft designed to do?

Flaps are devices on an aircraft's wing that are designed primarily to increase lift during critical phases of flight, such as takeoff and landing. When flaps are extended, they change the shape and camber of the wing, effectively increasing the surface area and allowing the wing to generate a higher lift at lower speeds. This is particularly important during takeoff when the aircraft needs to ascend quickly and safely, and during landing when it requires a longer lift capability to reduce the speed needed for touchdown.

The ability of flaps to enhance lift also reduces the stall speed of the aircraft, enabling it to fly safely at slower speeds. This is crucial for safe operations in the densely populated environments around airports where speed management is essential.

Other options, such as decreasing drag or controlling pitch, are not the primary functions of flaps. While flaps do influence drag, their main purpose is lift enhancement. Similarly, pitch control is primarily managed by the elevator, rather than flaps. Stabilizing flight during turbulence is more related to the aircraft's overall design and control surfaces rather than flaps specifically.