Some notes about the physics model: Large letters are used for vectors. Basic (with no intention of being 'realistic'): All aerodynamical objects are shaped as ellipsoids, in the way they interact with the air. ^ N_n (up) | ___ ____ | A_t / \ ---> N_t ('forward' direction) _|_ \____/ |----| A_n In the case of A_n = A_t we get: F_air = - A_n*v^2*(V/|V|), where v is velocity relative to the wind. Air is deflected from the body under the angle alpha, where |V|cos(alpha) = (N_n . V) In a given instant the momentum of the air hitting the object is P_air ~ V*(|V.N_t|A_t + |V.N_n|A_n) Assuming A_t < A_n, a part, D, of the momentum is deflected against the normal N_n. D ~ (V.N_n)*(A_t - A_n) (or maybe A_n/A_t ?) After the air has interacted with the object the momentum of the air is P_after = P_air*(1 - x) - N_n*y, where the object has gained x*P_air + N_n*y in momentum. Aerodynamics: ^ Wings lift | _--__/\ < air res--> |(_--___/ ) shape/air interaction engine<--- o | gravity v Forces acting on a body described by {R,angle,V,omega} engine pull Fe(angle) air resistance Fair(V,angle,wind) lifting force Flift(Fair,angle) Torques: Dampening Mdamp(omega) Air res. minimization Mair(Fair,angle) More specifically: Fe = C_engine*N_angle Fair = A[2]V_eff, where A[2] is a 2x2 matrix, dependent on N_angle*V_eff and the rudders. V_eff = V - Wind