What effect does a well-rigged elevator trim tab have on aircraft handling?

A well-rigged elevator trim tab significantly improves horizontal stability by allowing the pilot to maintain desired pitch attitude without constant manual control inputs. When properly adjusted, the trim tab creates a force opposite to the control surface's movement, balancing the aircraft in level flight. This means that once the desired pitch is attained, the pilot can reduce workload and experience smoother handling as the aircraft maintains its altitude without requiring continuous correction.

This stability is critical, especially during long flights or at various airspeeds, as it enables the pilot to focus on other critical aspects of flying rather than constantly managing the aircraft's pitch. This ultimately contributes to the overall effectiveness and safety of the flight operation, making the aircraft easier to fly and navigate.