PALPaper Airplane Lab

5 min read

Why Do Paper Airplanes Turn?

Most unwanted turns are manufacturing issues: one wing larger, one elevator higher, or a warped fuselage. Intentional turns are how stunt planes work.

Diagnose before you guess

Sight down the nose. Do both wings match? Are trailing edges even? Is the fuselage straight?

Intentional turning

The Boomerang Plane and Stunt Plane use asymmetry on purpose. Mark changes so you can undo them.

Rudders and winglets

Small vertical fins or rolled wing tips can reduce unwanted roll, but they also add complexity. Master even wings before adding extras.

Planes to try with this idea

Keep reading