When an aircraft is ascending or preparing for landing, much of its control depends on the subtle movement of wing surfaces. Mounted along the leading edge of fixed aircraft wings, slats are one such component that may either extend across the full wingspan or only part of it. During cruising stages of flight, a slat will remain flush with the wing surface to minimize drag effects. Additionally, when extended for low-speed control, it creates a narrow slot that channels high-energy airflow to delay flow separation and reduce the risk of stall, which can cause a sudden loss of lift and diminished control authority if left unmitigated.