Pilot Institute

JUNE 4, 2025

How does it turn or climb without the usual control surfaces? Despite their lack of horizontal control surfaces, tailless aircraft are designed to be stable. A tailless aircraft is a fixed-wing airplane without a horizontal stabilizing surface. Directional (yawing) stability from the vertical stabilizer.

Tail 52

Tail Airplanes Weight-Shift-Control Drag 52

Pilot Institute

FEBRUARY 20, 2025

These control surfaces dictate the aircraft’s roll, and this allows it to bank smoothly through turns or even recover from turbulence. Have you ever wondered how pilots keep control at high speeds, during stalls, or even when systems fail? Key Takeaways Ailerons control the aircrafts roll by adjusting lift on each wing.

Aileron 90

Aileron Weight-Shift-Control Rudder Longitudinal Axis 90

Pilot Institute

JUNE 12, 2025

The design adds weight, complexity, and maintenance needs. These systems control the wings, but engineers also take structural integrity and aerodynamic balance into consideration. These movements are controlled by hydraulic or electric actuators, which are managed by onboard computers or you, the pilot.

Weight-Shift-Control 52

Weight-Shift-Control Drag Lift Payload 52

Airspeed Junkie

SEPTEMBER 20, 2024

These engines are arranged in four pods beneath the wings, a design that not only provides the necessary thrust but also helps delay stall onset, contributing to the aircraft’s stability and performance. The control systems are equally sophisticated. The wings are another marvel of engineering. Air Force’s strategic planning.

Payload 98

Payload Weight-Shift-Control Thrust Aileron 98