What are vortex generators?

Vortex generators are indeed small airfoils mounted on the upper surface of wings. Their primary function is to modify the airflow over the wings to enhance aerodynamic performance. By creating small vortices, they help to energize the boundary layer of airflow, which delays flow separation and can improve lift at low speeds. This is particularly important during takeoff and landing phases, where maintaining control and stability at slower speeds is crucial.

While vortex generators can contribute to increased lift, their main role lies in the creation of controlled vortices that improve the overall aerodynamic efficiency of the wing. They do not directly increase lift by themselves, rather they help maintain smoother airflow which in turn allows for better lift characteristics under certain conditions. Similarly, their primary purpose is not to reduce drag, though they can indirectly affect drag by improving the lift-to-drag ratio in certain flight situations. They also have no relation to landing gear deployment, as that is a separate functional area of aircraft design and operation.