Which control surface is primarily used to change the pitch of an aircraft?

The primary control surface used to change the pitch of an aircraft is the elevator. Elevators are located at the tail of the aircraft and are hinged to the horizontal stabilizer. When the pilot moves the control yoke or stick forward or backward, the elevators deflect upward or downward. This deflection changes the airflow over the tail, creating a pitching moment.

When the elevators are raised, the tail pushes down, causing the nose to rise and increasing the aircraft's altitude. Conversely, when the elevators are lowered, the tail rises, and the nose drops, causing the aircraft to descend. This capability is crucial for controlling the aircraft's angle of attack and overall stability during flight.

The ailerons, found on the wings, control roll and are not designed to change pitch. The rudder, located on the vertical stabilizer, is used for controlling yaw. Winglets are aerodynamic structures at the tips of the wings that improve efficiency and reduce drag but do not influence pitch directly. Understanding how the elevator functions is essential for effective aircraft maneuvering and stability.