What is the primary function of the ailerons on an aircraft?

The primary function of the ailerons on an aircraft is to control roll and facilitate lateral movement. Ailerons are hinged flight control surfaces located on the trailing edge of each wing. When a pilot adjusts the ailerons, one aileron rises while the other descends, creating a differential lift between the wings. This difference in lift causes the aircraft to roll toward the wing with the lowered aileron, allowing for controlled turns and adjustments in the aircraft's orientation along the longitudinal axis.

Understanding the role of ailerons is crucial for pilots, as it directly affects an aircraft's maneuverability during flight. While there are other flight control surfaces responsible for managing pitch, yaw, and stabilization, ailerons specifically address the aircraft's ability to roll and change its direction laterally.