TIP, Wing, RH

Conical vs Drooped vs Symmetrical Wing Tips

Conical wing tips have a trailing edge that curves down below the wing. This is an aerodynamic optimization that Cessna used on all later models.

Early model Cessnas had symmetrical wing tips that lacked this improvement. Symmetrical wing tips are interchangeable left and right, whereas conical wing tips are specific to each side.

Some aftermarket wing tip manufacturers, such as Aircraft Development and Stene Aviation have FAA approval to install the more efficient conical wing tip on early model Cessna, whereas other aftermarket manufacturers offer both versions depending on the vintage of the airplane.

Conical wing tips are sometimes called “small droop” or “drooped” wing tips, but they differ from the drooped wing tips used in many Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) conversion kits. The drooped wing tips used in STOL kits typically curve down or droop at the leading and trailing edge, not just the trailing edge like the conical wing tips.

High Lift Wing vs Standard Wing
High lift or “camber-lift” Cessna wings have a larger camber than standard Cessna wings. It is most noticeable at the leading edge as shown below. This improved wing design is used on all Cessnas after the early 1970’s. The wing tips for a high-lift wing are not interchangeable with the wing tips for a standard wing. However, you do not need to know what type of wing you have as long as you choose the correct wing tip for your model aircraft.