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flight control
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flight control

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Quick Summary

Flight control refers to the system that manages an airplane's movement. This includes the pilot's manipulation of controls like a stick or wheel and rudder pedals, which are linked to movable surfaces on the aircraft.12

These surfaces are:
* Elevator: Controls pitch (up/down movement of the nose) by adjusting the horizontal stabilizer.1
* Ailerons: Control roll (rotation around the longitudinal axis) by moving oppositely on each wing, enabling turns.1
* Rudder: Controls yaw (rotation around the vertical axis) and counteracts adverse yaw caused by aileron use.1

Modern aircraft may use "fly-by-wire" systems, where electrical signals replace mechanical linkages, sometimes with hydraulic or electric assistance. Air traffic control also plays a crucial role in managing aircraft movements and ensuring separation.134

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.
4 Britannica Sources
  1. airplane - Elevator, aileron, and rudder controls
  2. flight control
  3. fly-by-wire
  4. traffic control - Conventional control techniques

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