trim tab

aircraft part

Written by

The Information Architects of Encyclopaedia Britannica

Last updated

July 14, 2026

Quick Summary

A trim tab is a small, adjustable section on the trailing edge of a larger control surface of an aircraft, such as the elevator, aileron, or rudder. These tabs are used to relieve the pilot of the need to constantly hold pressure on the primary controls. By adjusting the trim tab, the pilot can move the control surface to a desired position, allowing for a more stable flight without continuous manual input. This process, known as trimming, is essential for maintaining a steady speed and attitude, especially when flight conditions or power settings change. Trim tabs are typically operated mechanically or electrically.1

Summary created from Britannica articles using AI. AI can make mistakes, so verify using Britannica articles.

3 Britannica Sources

Ask Britannica AI about this topic

Britannica doesn't have a full article on this topic, so we've curated a list of our relevant coverage.

airplane
Elevator, aileron, and rudder controls
Trim tabs are used by the pilot to relieve the requirement of maintaining continuous pressure on the controls. These are smaller surfaces inset into the rudder, elevator, and ailerons, which can be positioned by mechanical or electrical means and which, when positioned, move the control…
Read More
Trim tabs are used by the pilot to relieve the requirement of maintaining continuous pressure on the controls. These are smaller surfaces inset into the rudder, elevator, and ailerons, which can be positioned by mechanical or electrical means and which, when positioned, move the control…
Read More