What is the function of the ailerons on an aircraft?

Ailerons are critical control surfaces located on the wings of an aircraft. Their primary function is to manage the aircraft's roll, which is the rotation of the aircraft around its longitudinal axis. When a pilot moves the control yoke or stick to the left or right, the ailerons adjust by deflecting in opposite directions—one aileron moves up while the other moves down. This differential movement alters the airflow over the wings, increasing lift on one side and decreasing it on the other, resulting in the aircraft rolling in the desired direction.

Understanding the specific functions of different control surfaces is essential for piloting. Pitch is controlled by the elevators, which affect the aircraft's nose attitude, and yaw is managed by the rudder, which affects the aircraft's side-to-side movement. While ailerons can indirectly assist during takeoff by helping to maintain level flight or control during the climb, they do not primarily serve a takeoff function. Therefore, the role of the ailerons in controlling roll is fundamental to aircraft maneuverability and stability.