The Controls of a Sailplane
Control column (the "stick"):
- moves side-to-side for directional control,
using the ailerons
(this is the 'rolling' plane).
- moves fore-and-aft for airspeed/attitude control,
using the elevator
(this is the pitching plane).
Rudder pedals:
- move the aircraft in the "yawing" plane.
Rudder pedal adjustment:
- for pilot comfort!
Some sailplanes also have a seat-back adjustment.
Airbrake lever (blue)
- Airbrakes increase the sink rate
and are used when landing.
Cable release knob (yellow)
- To release the cable,
whether on a winch-launch or aerotow.
Flap lever (where fitted)
- Used in high performance
aircraft to change the wing profile.
Elevator trim control
- varies load on control column.
Wheel brake lever (where fitted)
Lever to raise or lower the undercarriage.
Water Ballast release
- If water ballast is carried, it
must be jettisoned prior to landing.
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