Skyhawk: Jurnal Aviasi Indonesia
Vol. 6 No. 1 (2026): SKYHAWK: Jurnal Aviasi Indonesia

Comparative Study of Fixed-Wing and Rotary-Wing Aircraft: A Systematic Literature-Based Analysis of Flight Efficiency, Maneuverability, and Operational Function

Hadi Prayitno (Politeknik Penerbangan Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia)
Gunawan Sakti (Politeknik Penerbangan Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia)
Ahmad Bahrawi (Politeknik Penerbangan Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia)
Dani Chandra Yudho Pranoto (Politeknik Penerbangan Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia)
Moch Rifai (Politeknik Penerbangan Makassar, Makassar, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
27 Mar 2026

Abstract

This study compares fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft in terms of flight efficiency, maneuverability, and operational function by addressing the lack of an integrated framework for mission-based aircraft comparison. A systematic literature-based comparative analysis was conducted using aerodynamics textbooks, aviation handbooks, technical references, regulatory documents, and recent scholarly articles. The analysis was structured around three parameters: flight efficiency, including energy consumption, cruising speed, and range; maneuverability, including takeoff and landing capability, hovering, and movement flexibility; and operational function, including mission suitability and operating environment. The findings show that fixed-wing aircraft provide higher cruise efficiency, greater range, and better payload effectiveness because lift is generated through forward motion over fixed airfoils. In contrast, rotary-wing aircraft offer superior maneuverability, vertical takeoff and landing, and hovering capability, making them more suitable for confined-area, emergency, and point-access missions. The novelty of this study lies in its structured analytical matrix, which clarifies the trade-off between cruise efficiency and spatial flexibility. The study concludes that neither aircraft type is universally superior; effectiveness depends on the alignment between aerodynamic characteristics, operational constraints, and mission requirements.

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Journal Info

Abbrev

skyhawk

Publisher

Subject

Decision Sciences, Operations Research & Management Economics, Econometrics & Finance Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media Other

Description

This journal publishes articles containing aspects of the application of sports sciences and / or the results of community service carried out by actors and activists in the world of education in general, academics, industry, and community ...