Teaching Point 6 Identify the Wing Control Surfaces
Q1. Which two wing control surfaces always move in opposite directions?
A1. The left aileron and the right aileron.
Q1. How do ailerons produce roll around the longitudinal axis?
A1. As one aileron is raised the other is lowered so they push up on one wing and down on the other simultaneously.
Q1. Where are an aircraft’s flaps located?
A1. An aircraft’s flaps are located on the trailing edge of the wings, close to the fuselage.
Q1. What are trim tabs for?
A1. Trim tabs hold control surfaces in position without constant control pressure being applied by the pilot.
Q1. Why are control surfaces dynamically balanced?
A1. Control surfaces are dynamically balanced to make them easier to operate.
Q2. What axial movement do ailerons control?
A2. Ailerons control roll around the longitudinal axis.
Q2. How does the pilot control the ailerons?
A2. The pilot moves the control column to the left to roll to the left and to the right to roll to the right.
Q2. What are flaps used for?
A2. Flaps are used to slow the aircraft and simultaneously generate lift.
Q2. Where are trim tabs located?
A2. Trim tabs are often located on the trailing edge of control surfaces.
Q2. What do dynamically balanced controls use to help the pilot?
A2. Dynamically balanced controls use the force of the wind to help operate the control surfaces.
Q3. How do flaps help with landings?
A3. Flaps slow the aircraft allowing shorter landings.
Q3. How does the pilot stop the roll and stay in the banked position?
A3. To stop the roll and stay in a bank, the pilot returns the control column to centre.
Q3. How do flaps affect an aircraft’s landing performance?
A3. By slowing the aircraft, flaps allow shorter and safer landings.
Q3. How does a trim tab work?
A3. Air pushes on the trim tab when it is extended and provides force to hold the aircraft control surface in position.
Q3. How does dynamic balance get the wind to help move the control surfaces?
A3. The moving air helps operate the control surface because part of the control surface is designed to project out into the wind in front of its own hinge to catch the passing air.