STABILATORS Meaning and
Definition
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Stabilators, also known as stabilizer-elevators, are key components of an aircraft's empennage, specifically the tail section, that serve to control its pitch or attitude. Comprised of a horizontal stabilizer and elevators, stabilators enable the pilot to manage the aircraft's stability and maneuverability during flight.
The horizontal stabilizer is a fixed wing-like structure typically located on the tail of the aircraft and is responsible for providing stability, helping the aircraft maintain its level flight attitude. The elevators, on the other hand, are control surfaces attached to the trailing edge of the stabilizer and are movable in nature. They create downward or upward forces, aiding in altering the aircraft's pitch or altitude.
The unique characteristic of the stabilator is that it combines both the horizontal stabilizer and elevators into a single, movable unit. This design allows for simultaneous adjustment of both the stabilizer and elevators, resulting in improved control and efficiency. By manipulating the stabilator, the pilot can adjust the aircraft's pitch, whether climbing or descending, with relative ease.
Stabilators can be found in various types of aircraft, including military jet fighters, commercial airplanes, and even smaller general aviation aircraft. The implementation of stabilators has greatly enhanced aircraft control and stability, contributing to the safety and performance of modern aviation.
Etymology of STABILATORS
The word "stabilators" is a combination of two words: "stabilizer" and "elevator".
The term "stabilizer" originates from the Latin word "stabilis" meaning "stable" or "steadfast". In the context of aviation, a stabilizer refers to a fixed or movable surface on the tail of an aircraft that helps maintain stability and control during flight.
The word "elevator" originates from the Latin word "elevare" meaning "to raise" or "to lift". In aviation, an elevator is a movable surface on the tail of an aircraft that controls the pitching motion.
By combining these two terms, "stabilators" was coined to describe a specific type of flight control surface on an aircraft. Stabilators are horizontal surfaces on the tail of an aircraft that function as both stabilizers and elevators.
