What is the primary role of an aileron?

The primary role of an aileron is to control the roll of an aircraft. Ailerons are located on the trailing edges of the wings, and their main function is to manipulate the aircraft's attitude around its longitudinal axis. When the pilot moves the control stick or yoke to one side, the aileron on that wing deflects upwards while the opposite aileron deflects downwards. This action changes the lift distribution across the wings, causing the aircraft to roll towards the side with the lowered aileron.

By controlling roll, ailerons enable the pilot to perform maneuvers such as turning the aircraft effectively. This is essential for maintaining control during various flight conditions, particularly during turns or in response to environmental factors like turbulence. Understanding this function is crucial for pilots, as proper aileron use directly influences an aircraft's performance and handling characteristics.