Rudder
The rudder is a primary flight-control surface that controls yaw about the aircraft’s vertical axis.
- Where it is
- Hinged to the vertical stabilizer at the tail of the generic transport-aircraft model.
- What it does
- Its deflection creates a side force at the tail and changes the aircraft’s yawing moment.
- Relationship
- The rudder pedals command the yaw-control system; coordinated flight also depends on aileron input and the aircraft’s roll response.
- Common confusion
- The rudder controls yaw directly, not roll. Bank angle is controlled primarily by ailerons and, on some aircraft, roll spoilers.
Check yourself
Without looking back, can you explain where the rudder is, what it does, and which component drives it or is driven by it?
Scope: Generic transport-aircraft teaching model. Reviewed 2026-09-09.