Word: airfoil
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Dates: during 1930-1939
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...where airflow up to 750 m.p.h.* is possible, Dr. Lewis proved that at 575 m.p.h. the smooth flow of air over the wing top suddenly breaks away in a feathery "shock wave" which completely nullifies lifting power. Cause is an area of excessively compressed air, built up by the airfoil's passage. Same phenomenon occurs at the tips of propellers. Only chance for speed greater than 575 m.p.h. is a mechanism for changing wing and propeller shape when the plane reaches Dr. Lewis' limit...
Many an "unexplained" crash of aircraft might be traced to a loosened airfoil control, a weakened cable, faulty lubrication, dirty fuel. To blame: the mechanic. A fact: mechanics are frequently youngsters. An act: last week Clarence M. Young, Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Aeronautics, ruled: "The minimum age requirement for any class of mechanic's license is 18 years . . . the lowest we can permit while keeping in mind the highly important part the mechanic plays in the safe operation of aircraft, and the need for constant vigilance...