ACS Private Pilot Airplane Practice Test 2026 - Free Private Pilot Practice Questions and Study Guide

The elevator is a crucial control surface located on the horizontal stabilizer of an aircraft, responsible for managing the aircraft's pitch. Pitch refers to the angle of the nose of the aircraft relative to the horizon. By adjusting the position of the elevator, the pilot can raise or lower the aircraft's nose, which directly influences the aircraft's climb or descent. When the elevator is deflected upward, it causes the tail to push downward, resulting in the nose lifting and the aircraft climbing. Conversely, when the elevator is deflected downward, the tail pushes upward, lowering the nose and leading to a descent. This functionality is essential for controlling the vertical flight path of the aircraft, making it possible for the pilot to maintain a desired altitude or change altitude efficiently during flight maneuvers.