Aircraft Flight Controls

Question 1

Rudder

Answer 1

Located at the trailing edge of the fin (vertical stabiliser). It assists in turning to the left or the right.

Question 2

Elevators

Answer 2

Located at the trailing edge of the tail plane (horizontal stabiliser). Assists in climbing and descending)

Question 3

Ailerons

Answer 3

Located at the trailing edge of the wing, they assist in turning (i.e. wing up/down).

Question 4

Where is the inboard aileron located and when is it used?

Answer 4

The inboard aileron is located about half way along the trailing edge of the wing. It is used in-flight, to assist in turning.

Question 5

Flaps and Slats

Answer 5

Located at both the leading (slats) and trailing (flaps) edges of the wings/ They are partially deployed for take-off to increase the curve of the wing and thereby provide more lift at slower speeds. They are deployed at landing to increase the curve of the wing, greatly increasing lift, thus allowing the aircraft to land at slower speeds. All flaps are retracted during high speed flight.

Question 6

Spoilers

Answer 6

Located on the upper surface of the wing. They destroy the lift and induce drag on the wings, thus slowing down the aircraft in flight. They are also used after landing to increase the rate at which the aircraft slows down. As they kill lift, they help to keep the aircraft on the ground.

Question 7

Engine 1

Answer 7

Left engine (think pilot’s perspective)

Question 8

Engine 2

Answer 8

Right engine (think pilot’s perspective)