yeap, I just wanted to add that rudder is used very often, contrary to the popular opinion. And no, you couldn't make a perfect turn without a rudder - or your coffee will spill.
Also rudder switches the controls with elevator in banks more than 50 degree and you use it heavily there to keep the horizon where you need it.
Pilots use rudder a lot without realizing it in any plane - commercial aviation, fighter jets or a small aviation. It is essential part of control even though it may be used very lightly.In fact it is so essential - airlines pay shit load of money to calibrate the auto pilot so it keeps aircraft straight. Otherwise plane burns from 0.5 to 3% more fuel (and that's a lot of dow).
Some fighter planes (F-18 for example) use rudder deflection in opposite directions along with elevators, leading edge slots and flaps to get more maneuverability as rudders in this case increases pitching moment by adding drag on the top side of the plane. But hey, it's a bit complicated.
Once you start flying - you'll see how much rudder you use. Over use it - and you are asking for disaster - the stol. Use it too lightly - your drag will be excessive. It's the toughest control to learn how to use properly.
I hope it helps.
Home
