There are literally thousands of reports and test documentation on the characteristics of airfoil shapes. In the past few years’ computer programs have been developed to layout a specific airfoil based upon the desired characteristics the design is to achieve. There is a great deal to be considered in choosing an airfoil. These deal with all of these factors and give an understanding between reality and what is theory. It is advisable to review this to get a better understanding of all of the factors that go into selecting the best airfoil, either for the wing or tail surfaces.