What is the rudder primarily used to control?

• A. Pitch.
• B. Roll.
• C. Yaw.
• D. Altitude.

Answer: (C)

The main function of the rudder is to control yaw—the rotation of the aircraft around its vertical axis, which makes the nose point left or right. Deflecting the rudder creates sideward forces that steer the aircraft’s heading, essential for maintaining a coordinated flight path and correcting for crosswinds. Pitch (nose up/down) is controlled by the elevator, and roll (banking left or right) is controlled by the ailerons, while altitude changes mainly come from throttle and overall pitch. So the rudder’s primary use is to control yaw.