Private Pilot Private Exam

How do ailerons affect an aircraft during flight?

1. They control the pitch of the aircraft

2. They facilitate the roll of the aircraft

3. They increase lift during takeoff

4. They stabilize the yaw motion

The correct answer is: They facilitate the roll of the aircraft

Ailerons play a crucial role in controlling the roll of an aircraft during flight. When a pilot wants to initiate a turn, they use the yoke or control stick to deflect one aileron upward and the other downward. This deflection creates differential lift across the wings. The wing with the aileron that is raised experiences less lift, causing that side to drop, while the wing with the aileron positioned downward generates more lift, causing that side to rise. This combination of forces allows for controlled rolling motion, enabling the aircraft to bank and turn effectively. Understanding this function is essential for pilots as it directly influences the aircraft's maneuverability and overall flight dynamics.