What do ailerons control in an aircraft?

Ailerons are control surfaces located on the wings of an aircraft, and their primary function is to manage the roll movement. When a pilot moves the control yoke or stick to the left or right, the ailerons deflect in opposite directions—one aileron goes up while the other goes down. This asymmetrical positioning creates differential lift over the wings, causing one wing to rise and the other to lower, thereby rolling the aircraft toward the desired direction.

This roll capability is essential for turning and maneuvering during flight. It allows pilots to control the bank angle of the aircraft, which is crucial for making coordinated turns. Understanding aileron function is fundamental for aircrew members, as it directly relates to the aircraft's handling and response characteristics in various flight scenarios.