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Static labelled overviewSelected: Ailerons
TAIL CONTROLSWING AND HIGH-LIFT DEVICESLANDING GEARFLIGHT DECK
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Read about Aileron

Guided journey

Core airflow: intake to exhaust

Follow the working fluid through the generic two-spool turbofan before tracing the shafts that return turbine work to the compressors and fan.

Step 1 of 8Intake

The intake presents the incoming air to the fan.

Trace the system

What connects to this part?

Select a turbofan flow-path or spool component to show its reviewed upstream and downstream links.

Identify the part

Find it in the model

Test spatial recall with the four reviewed low-pressure-system concepts.

Compare mode

See the difference

Compare where each high-lift device sits and how it changes the wing.

CompareTrailing-edge flapLeading-edge slat
LocationInboard trailing edgeWing leading edge
Primary effectIncreases camber and often areaOpens a slot that delays separation
Exam distinctionAdds substantial lift and dragHelps sustain attached flow at high angle of attack

Reviewed FAA source (2026-09-09)

Aileron

An aileron is a primary flight-control surface that moves differentially to control roll about the aircraft’s longitudinal axis.

Where it is
On the outboard trailing edge of each wing in the generic transport-aircraft model.
What it does
Opposite aileron deflections change the lift distribution between the wings and create a rolling moment.
Relationship
Ailerons work with the roll-control system and may be assisted by spoilers on larger aircraft.
Common confusion
An aileron is not a spoiler. An aileron rotates at the trailing edge, while a spoiler rises into the airflow and reduces lift.

Check yourself

Without looking back, can you explain where the aileron is, what it does, and which component drives it or is driven by it?

Scope: Generic transport-aircraft teaching model. Reviewed 2026-09-09.

Related concepts

Sources

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