What is the primary use of spoilers in aircraft operations?

The primary use of spoilers in aircraft operations is for speed control during flight. Spoilers are devices that can be deployed on the wings of an aircraft to disrupt the airflow over the wing, which reduces lift and increases drag. This capability is particularly useful when an aircraft needs to descend more quickly or control its speed during landing approaches.

When deployed, spoilers create additional drag that helps to slow the aircraft down, allowing for a more controlled descent and approach to landing. This is especially crucial in managing airspeed and descent rate effectively, ensuring that flight operations remain safe and efficient during critical phases of flight like landing.

In contrast, spoilers are not used as aileron controls for roll; while they do have a role in roll rate control, their main function is not as primary roll control surfaces like ailerons. They also do not contribute to increasing thrust nor do they power the elevator. Overall, their primary function is to aid in managing airspeed and enhancing the effectiveness of the aircraft’s descent profile during various phases of flight.