Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 11, 2024

Longitudinal Stability Longitudinal stability exists about the pitch axis. Placing the center of gravity ahead of the aircraft’s center of lift improves longitudinal stability. The aircraft’s horizontal stabilizer (tailplane) creates a downward lift to counterbalance pitching moments.

Stability 52

Stability Center of Gravity Aileron Rudder 52

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 1, 2024

Additional Dangers of Ice Accumulation Icing also makes your aircraft heavier and can even change the position of the center of gravity. It most commonly forms on the leading edges of your aircraft, including the wings, tail, and horizontal stabilizer, as well as on the propeller blades and pitot tubes.

Pitot Tube 52

Pitot Tube Drag Lift Airfoil 52

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

Just recognizable in the background is a horizontal stabilizer and one-piece elevator. Nudging it back to center slid the ball a diameter the other way—trying to corral it in the middle was a bit pointless as it didn’t want to live there. I think I’d have figured out the trick in another couple hours.

Airplanes 61

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 61