Which of the following are known as the four forces of flight?

The four forces of flight are lift, weight, thrust, and drag. These forces are fundamental principles that govern the motion of an aircraft through the air, whether it be a helicopter or an airplane.

Lift is the force that acts perpendicular to the relative wind and supports the aircraft in the air, allowing it to rise. This force is generated primarily by the rotor blades in helicopters as they move through the air, creating a pressure difference. Weight, on the other hand, is the force of gravity acting downward on the aircraft, countering lift.

Thrust is the force produced by the helicopter's engine and rotor system, propelling the aircraft forward. This force must overcome drag, which is the aerodynamic resistance the aircraft experiences as it moves through the air. Drag opposes thrust and varies with speed; it arises due to the friction and differences in pressure acting on the body of the aircraft.

Understanding these four forces is crucial for pilots, as they must manage them effectively during flight to achieve safe and controlled operations.