![]() In larger and faster aircraft, the aerodynamic forces become too great for the pilot to overcome without assistance so hydraulic systems are often incorporated to move the flight control surface. In this design, a collection of mechanical components such as cables, pulleys, rods and chains transmit the movement of the flight deck controls to the appropriate control surface(s). The most basic flight control systems are mechanical and, although they date back to the earliest aircraft types, are in use in the majority of light, general aviation aircraft. The ailerons control motion around the longitudinal axis (roll), the elevator controls rotation around the lateral axis (pitch) and the rudder controls movement around the vertical axis (yaw). Movement of any of the primary flight controls causes the aircraft to rotate around the axis of rotation associated with the control surface. Secondary flight controls are intended to improve the aircraft performance characteristics or to relieve excessive control loading, and consist of high lift devices such as slats and flaps as well as flight spoilers and trim systems.ī727 Flight Control Surfaces. Primary flight controls are required to safely control an aircraft during flight and consist of ailerons, elevators (or, in some installations, stabilator) and rudder. The airplane moves about these axes through roll, pitch, and yaw.Aircraft flight controls are the means by which a pilot controls the direction and attitude of an aircraft in flight.įlight control systems are subdivided into what are referred to as primary and secondary flight controls. Vertical axis (a vertical line from the bottom up, the airplane yaws about this axis controlled by the rudder).Īircraft are controlled through primary and secondary flight controls, and move over three axes known as longitudinal, lateral, and vertical axes.Lateral axis (this axis goes wingtip to wingtip, the airplane pitches about this axis controlled by the elevator).Longitudinal axis (long axis from nose to tail, ailerons roll the airplane around this axis).The airplane moves about three axes, and all of these axes meet at one central point which is the CENTER OF GRAVITY. ![]() Adjusting trim allows you to release that pressure while keeping the airplane at the same altitude. For example, once you level off and set your desired power setting, you may be holding the yoke slightly forward or slightly back to maintain your current altitude. It is often referred to as the “cheap man’s autopilot”, and allows you to maintain a set altitude by alleviating control pressures. Trim, on the other hand, is similar to cruise control in your car. Secondary Flight Controls:įlaps increase the amount of lift the wing is capable of producing, allowing the aircraft to be flown at slower speeds which can be beneficial for takeoff and landing. The ailerons and elevator are connected to the aircraft’s “stick” or “yoke”, while the rudder is controlled through rudder pedals located in the footwell.
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