How do air brakes function during flight?

Air brakes are devices used on aircraft to enhance control during descent and landing phases of flight. Their primary function is to create additional drag, which helps decrease the aircraft's speed effectively and thereby increases the rate of descent. When deployed, air brakes disrupt the airflow around the aircraft, increasing aerodynamic drag without significantly altering the lift produced by the wings. This allows pilots to manage their descent more efficiently and achieve a steeper approach without increasing airspeed. The ability to increase drag aids in maintaining the aircraft's stability and control during these critical phases, especially when precise altitude and speed are necessary for safe landings.