Glossary

Deutsch: Flügel / Español: Ala / Português: Asa / Français: Aile / Italian: Ala

In the maritime context, the term wing refers to several specific parts or areas on a ship, primarily relating to the design and layout of the vessel's structure or equipment. These areas play important roles in the functionality, operation, and safety of the ship.

Description

The wing on a ship typically refers to the extended parts of the ship's structure or equipment that protrude from the main body. These are most commonly associated with the bridge or the decks:

• Bridge Wing: The most common use of the term in maritime contexts, the bridge wing is an extension of the ship’s bridge (the area from which the ship is navigated). Located on both the port (left) and starboard (right) sides of the bridge, these wings allow officers a clear view along the sides of the ship, aiding in navigation, docking, and manoeuvring in tight spaces. Bridge wings are typically equipped with essential controls and communication equipment, such as engine telegraphs and ship’s whistles, so that the ship can be operated from the wing if necessary.

• Flight Deck Wing: On aircraft carriers, the term "wing" can refer to the outer edges or extensions of the flight deck. These areas are crucial for the safe launch and recovery of aircraft and are equipped with various systems and equipment related to flight operations.

• Tank Wings: In some cases, "wing" may refer to the side compartments of tanks, especially in oil tankers or bulk carriers. These compartments can be used for ballast or to store cargo, helping to balance the ship and ensure stability during voyages.

• Wing Decks: In catamarans and trimarans (multi-hulled vessels), "wing" can refer to the structure that connects the hulls together, often referred to as wing decks. These provide stability and additional space for cargo, passengers, or equipment.

Application Areas

The term wing is applied in various maritime contexts, particularly in the following areas:

• Navigation and Maneuvering: The bridge wings provide critical vantage points for ship officers to oversee the ship’s sides, ensuring safe navigation in harbours and during complex manoeuvres like docking.
• Flight Operations: On aircraft carriers, the flight deck wings are essential for managing the space needed to handle aircraft safely, particularly during takeoff and landing.
• Ship Stability and Storage: Wing tanks on tankers and bulk carriers are integral to the ship’s stability, helping to manage weight distribution and ballast.

Well-Known Examples

• Titanic's Bridge Wings: The RMS Titanic had bridge wings that extended outward from the ship's superstructure, providing officers with a clear view for navigation. These wings were used to issue commands during the ship’s voyage.

• USS Nimitz (Aircraft Carrier): The Nimitz-class carriers have extensive flight deck wings that are crucial for managing the large number of aircraft they handle, ensuring safe operations in all conditions.

• Modern Cruise Ships: Most modern cruise ships are equipped with bridge wings, allowing officers to navigate large vessels through tight spaces like narrow ports or busy shipping lanes.

Treatment and Risks

The use of wings in maritime settings, while beneficial, also comes with certain risks:

• Exposure to Elements: Bridge wings are exposed to the elements, meaning officers working in these areas can face harsh weather conditions, which can impact visibility and safety.
• Structural Vulnerability: In the case of extreme weather or collision, the wings, being protrusions from the main body of the ship, can be more vulnerable to damage.
• Operational Complexity: Managing operations from the flight deck wings on aircraft carriers requires precise coordination, as the risks of accidents during takeoff and landing are high.

Similar Terms

• Catwalk: A narrow walkway, often found on the sides of the ship or on top of structures like tanks, similar in function to bridge wings for accessibility.
• Port and Starboard: Refers to the left and right sides of a ship, respectively. Bridge wings extend from these sides.
• Flybridge: An open or enclosed deck on top of the bridge or upper structure, often used on yachts, providing a high vantage point similar to bridge wings.

Weblinks

• space-glossary.com: 'Wing' in the space-glossary.com
• wind-lexikon.de: 'Flügel' in the wind-lexikon.de (German)

Summary

In the maritime context, wing refers to several key areas or structures on a ship, such as bridge wings, flight deck wings, and wing tanks. These components are essential for the safe operation, navigation, and stability of vessels. While they offer critical functionality, they also come with specific risks that require careful management to ensure the safety and efficiency of the ship.

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