Book 23, Question 15
What Do the Rudder and Elevator at the Tail Do?
The tail of a plane is not just for looks. It has two important controls. Each one steers in a different direction! Many small planes have rudder pedals that pilots push with their feet.
More fun facts
- The rudder is attached to the back of the tall fin on the tail.
- Pilots use the rudder to keep the nose and tail lined up with the oncoming air.
- Without rudder in a turn, the plane's nose swings toward the outside of the turn.
- The elevator on the tail tilts the nose up or down.
- Some planes move their whole flat tail piece instead of an elevator. It is called a stabilator.
Sources: faa.gov
Questions kids ask
How does the pilot move the elevator?
By pushing or pulling the control wheel or stick.