Expert: Mark Janus - 8/6/2009

Question
Dear Sir,
What are the advantages of asymmetric Aircraft in terms of forces and moments acting over them?

Answer
Just off hand I'm not certain on any of advantages or disadvantages of an asymmetric design...  it would depend on the design...  Honestly any asymmetry will result in asymmetry in the flight handling characteristics (i.e. turning to the left or turning to the right would likely result in different "handling")...

There may be an advantage from a structures perspective as two booms to link the horizontal stabilizer and main wing is probably advantageous while you may only want to go with one engine so the pilot would be in one "fuselage" and the engine would be in the other ....   it could also give better visibility...

Hope this helps,
mj