"Hilton" wrote in message
k.net...
Correct, the whole lift opposes weight description focuses on a very
narrow
case (or set of cases). It is not general at all; in fact, it falls apart
when the airplane turns!

A turn is not "unaccelerated flight", which was the condition specifically
restricting this entire discussion.

IMHO: Those who think of lift as the 'upward' force(s) have simplified the
problem too much and this sets up a whole host of inconsistencies.

In unaccelerated flight, it is an entirely appropriate simplification for
the introduction of the subject. It is certainly FAR more correct than what
the original poster's instructor claimed.

Pete