Which components are secondary flight controls?

Which components are secondary flight controls?

• A. Ailerons, elevator, rudder
• B. Spinners and propellers
• C. Flaps, slats, spoilers, trim
• D. Nose gear

Answer: (C)

Secondary flight controls are adjustments that change the aircraft’s lift, drag, or lift distribution to support the pilot’s main control inputs, especially during takeoff, landing, and speed changes. Flaps and slats increase low-speed lift by altering wing shape, allowing safer takeoffs and landings at slower speeds. Spoilers reduce lift and increase drag, aiding descent and giving additional roll control on some aircraft. Trim changes the aerodynamic moment so the pilot can hold a steady attitude without constant pressure on the controls. These elements don’t provide the primary attitude changes themselves (that role is filled by ailerons, elevator, and rudder), but they enhance performance and handling. The other options are propulsion components or landing gear, not flight-control surfaces.

Secondary flight controls are adjustments that change the aircraft’s lift, drag, or lift distribution to support the pilot’s main control inputs, especially during takeoff, landing, and speed changes. Flaps and slats increase low-speed lift by altering wing shape, allowing safer takeoffs and landings at slower speeds. Spoilers reduce lift and increase drag, aiding descent and giving additional roll control on some aircraft. Trim changes the aerodynamic moment so the pilot can hold a steady attitude without constant pressure on the controls. These elements don’t provide the primary attitude changes themselves (that role is filled by ailerons, elevator, and rudder), but they enhance performance and handling. The other options are propulsion components or landing gear, not flight-control surfaces.