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For now you're right, but for the future... From the article:

> The technology could even replace traditional wing flaps, he says. Although the plasma-actuated “flapless” or “hingeless” wings are currently only suitable for smaller aircraft such as drones or UAVs, Erfani believes that further development could make the technology viable on larger, faster planes.

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I think we are a LONG ways off from having plasma emitters strong enough to make essentially lightsaber wings. Interesting thought though :)

I don't think that's the concept. It's a solid wing with no moving parts and lift is modified solely by the plasma emitters. The entire wing's surface is still a solid material, it's just the plasma is modifying how the air behaves around it causing change in lift.

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