Pilot Institute

APRIL 12, 2025

The complication with helicopters is that the main rotor is driven by an engine that applies a twisting force (torque) to spin it. This is called torque reaction, and if its left unchecked, the helicopter fuselage will spin in the opposite direction of the main rotor. These rotors create equal and opposite torques that cancel out.

52

52

Pilot Institute

FEBRUARY 20, 2025

The rotational force thats needed to move an object about an axis is called torque. The simplest formula for torque is: Torque = F x L L is the distance between the object and the axis of rotation, also called the moment arm. This shifts the ailerons Center of Gravity (C.G.) With enough mass added, the C.G.

Aileron 90

Aileron Weight-Shift-Control Rudder Longitudinal Axis 90

Plane and Pilot

OCTOBER 3, 2024

Another advantage of the counter-rotating props is the elimination of torque roll. This is the tendency to dig in the left tip float during takeoff while countering engine torque. 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.

Airplanes 79

Airplanes Rudder Knot Aileron 79