For example, in a single prop plane like the Cessna 172, I would assume there is a lot of drag on the fuselage from the propeller pushing air on it. Why isn’t that a big concern?
In: Engineering
It does somewhat. We just overpower it a bit.
There is also some “centrifugal force” imparted on the air so it doesn’t blow directly back but also a bit out. This is a big reason why jet engines are shrouded, and why more efficient engines are put below the wings
The aircraft is also aerodynamic. It forces much air around it
oh, drag is certainly a concern. ‘prop wash’ actually spirals around the plane, more causing the plane to yaw. the so-called ‘parasitic drag’ you refer to is also from the friction of the relative wind as the plane flys through the air. this is why you see things like a nice shiney surface with flush rivets to cut down on those invariable wind resistances.
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