Which control surface would you adjust to correct yaw?

The rudder is the control surface specifically designed to manage yaw, which is the rotation of an aircraft about its vertical axis. Yaw is essentially the left or right movement of the aircraft’s nose relative to its direction of movement. When adjustments are needed to correct yaw, the pilot uses the rudder to change the aircraft's direction and maintain coordinated flight.

The rudder works in conjunction with the ailerons and elevators but serves a distinct purpose. It helps counteract adverse yaw caused by aileron input and is also essential for making directional changes during turns without uncoordinated flight. This is important for maintaining smooth handling and ensuring that the aircraft remains stable and controllable during maneuvers.

In contrast, ailerons are primarily used for roll, the elevator controls pitch, and flaps are utilized to increase lift and drag during takeoff and landing but do not affect yaw. Each control surface plays a crucial role in flight dynamics, making it vital for pilots to understand their specific functions.