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Old 12-27-2012 | 05:30 AM
  #47  
Top_Gunn
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From: Granger, IN
Default RE: Tips to make you a Better Pilot:

It's the RUDDER that stears the ship (AIR).
Well, no. Using the rudder makes the plane yaw. If the plane has enough dihedral, the yaw will induce a bank, and up elevator will make a banked plane turn. Some planes' ailerons are ineffective when they're flying slowly, and if you have one of those planes using rudder to steer on final is necessary. For most planes, though, all turns should be coordinated, and only enough rudder to counteract adverse yaw (frequently none, for small models) is needed. Airplanes aren't boats, and the rudder is not the primary steering control.

One exception, to be sure: if you're a good enough pilot you can land straight in a crosswind by flying with one wing low, using opposite rudder to keep the bank from inducing a turn. It's fun, but it's hard. Crabbing is a lot easier.