What does Bernoulli's principle explain in aviation?

Bernoulli's principle explains the generation of lift by an aircraft wing, which is fundamental to how airplanes fly. This principle states that an increase in the speed of a fluid occurs simultaneously with a decrease in pressure. In the context of aviation, as air flows over the wing of an aircraft, it moves faster over the curved top surface compared to the flatter bottom surface. This difference in speed creates a pressure difference: lower pressure above the wing and higher pressure below it. This pressure differential generates lift, allowing the aircraft to rise into the air.

Understanding this principle is crucial for pilots and engineers, as it informs wing design and flight performance. It also helps explain why wing shape (airfoil design) is vital for optimizing lift while maintaining control and stability during flight.