What effect does a side-to-side movement of the control stick have on aileron travel in an airplane equipped with differential-type aileron control?

Prepare for the FAA Flight Controls Test. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions with hints and explanations. Get ready to ace your exam!

In an airplane equipped with differential-type aileron control, when the control stick is moved side-to-side, the aileron travel is designed to improve roll control and minimize adverse yaw. In this system, the ailerons are not identical in their movement; instead, they are designed such that one aileron (the one moving up) has a greater up travel than the down travel of the opposite aileron.

This configuration allows for more efficient roll response during a turn while reducing the tendency for the aircraft to yaw in the opposite direction of the roll. The aileron that moves upward creates a greater decrease in lift on that wing, while the aileron that moves downward does not produce the same increase in lift, as its down travel is less than the up travel of its counterpart.

This differential movement helps to balance the forces at play during a maneuver, making the aircraft easier to control and enhancing its aerodynamic efficiency. As a result, when the control stick is moved, the ailerons respond in a manner that reflects this unequal travel, leading to stability during turns and minimizing unwanted yaw.

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