Flight Operations
- Review Aerodynamics & Airplane Systems
- 1.1Explain the four forces which act on an airplane in flight
- 1.2Explain the angle of attack- Commercial Pilot-Aerodynamics and Performance
- 1.3Explain the basics of Aerodynamics
- 1.4Explain drag
- 1.5Explain thrust, stability, and center of gravity
- 1.6Explain weight and balance
- 1.7Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft components
- Pressure, Temperature & Density
- Weather
- 3.1Identify and explain the structure of the earth’s layers of the atmosphere, and become knowledgeable of the history of the study of meteorology
- 3.2Describe atmospheric conditions using appropriate weather terminology
- 3.3Demonstrate an understanding of frontal systems
- 3.4Demonstrate an understanding of wind speed, temperature, pressure & dew point
- 3.5Employ meteorological terminology and coding procedures
- 3.6Identify air masses and monitor daily weather phenomena
- 3.7Demonstrate an understanding of synoptic weather structure
- Weather Forecasting
- Weather Hazards
- Weather Tools
- IFR
- IFR
- IFR Navigation
Review Aerodynamics & Airplane Systems
Understanding Flight Controls and Their Functions
Aircraft control surface used to induce roll.
Flight controls are the means by which a pilot controls the direction and attitude of an aircraft in flight. These controls are divided into primary and secondary systems. Understanding these systems is crucial for safe and efficient aircraft operation.
Primary Flight Controls
Primary flight controls are the ailerons, elevator (or stabilator), and rudder. These controls change the aircraft's attitude (its orientation relative to the horizon) and its direction of flight.
Ailerons
Ailerons control roll about the longitudinal axis. The ailerons are attached to the outboard trailing edge of each wing and move in the opposite direction from each other. Ailerons control the aircraft's roll, which in turn allows the aircraft to make turns.
Elevator
The elevator controls pitch about the lateral axis. It is located on the trailing edge of the horizontal stabilizer on the tail of the aircraft. When the pilot pulls back on the control yoke, the elevators go up, causing the airplane's nose to pitch up. Conversely, when the pilot pushes forward on the yoke, the elevators go down, causing the nose to pitch down.
Rudder
The rudder controls yaw about the vertical axis. It is located on the trailing edge of the vertical stabilizer on the tail of the aircraft. The rudder is used to control the left or right movement of the aircraft's nose. This is particularly important during takeoff and landing to counteract the effects of crosswinds.
Secondary Flight Controls
Secondary flight controls include flaps, slats, spoilers, and trim systems. These controls are used to enhance the performance characteristics of the aircraft.
Flaps
Flaps are located on the trailing edge of the wing, inboard of the ailerons. They are used to increase the lift and drag of the wing, allowing for slower airspeeds during takeoff and landing.
Slats
Slats are located on the leading edge of the wing. When deployed, they create a slot between themselves and the wing, allowing more air to pass over the top of the wing and generate more lift.
Spoilers
Spoilers are located on the top of the wing and can be deployed to reduce lift and increase drag. They are often used during landing to help slow the aircraft down.
Trim Systems
Trim systems are used to relieve the pilot of the need to maintain constant pressure on the flight controls. They can be adjusted to maintain a specific attitude without the pilot's input.
Understanding these flight controls and their functions is crucial for pilots to safely and efficiently operate an aircraft. By mastering these controls, pilots can ensure smooth and controlled flight, from takeoff to landing.