Yaw Control (Rudder)

081-05-03Pablo Asensio Martínez2026-04-011 min

Rudder

The primary control surface for yaw (rotation around the vertical/normal axis).

  • Action: Rudder Left -> Tail moves Right -> Nose Yaws Left.
  • Secondary Effect: Yaw leads to Roll (due to speed difference on outer wing and dihedral effect).

Rudder Limiter

At high speeds, full rudder deflection could cause structural failure of the vertical fin due to excessive aerodynamic loads.

  • System: A limiter restricts the maximum rudder deflection as airspeed (CAS) increases.
  • Variable Stop: The physical stop moves inward as speed increases.

Uses of Rudder

  1. Coordinate Turns: Oppose adverse yaw.
  2. Crosswind Landing: Align the longitudinal axis with the runway (de-crab) or maintain sideslip (wing down).
  3. Engine Failure: Check yaw towards the dead engine.