When we make a turn in flight, why do we use the rudder?
We all know from the books the answer is to “correct for adverse yaw” — which is just a fancy way of saying to overcome drag from the aileron.
Coordinated Turns
Key Takeaways:
- The rudder's main function in a turn is to counteract "adverse yaw," which is the drag created by the ailerons.
- To initiate a coordinated turn, first apply rudder in the desired direction, followed by aileron and slight elevator back-pressure; use rudder first again to roll out of the turn.
- The amount of rudder needed varies significantly by aircraft type, but the objective is always coordinated flight, which pilots should achieve primarily by feel and external cues rather than solely relying on instruments.
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