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2 Answers

function of fixed tab

Asked by: 8835 views Aerodynamics, General Aviation, Student Pilot

Hello everyone,

What is the role of fixed tab? For example i have seen small tabs on the wings or ailerons of an aircraft. Recently i saw a single propeller aircraft having a fixed tab on its starboard aileron. It was attached at the trailing edge of the aileron. i asked instucter there but his answer was not convincing. the propeller of that aircraft rotates clockwise as seen from the cockpit. Please anyone put some light whether it has some thing with stability or something else. 

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2 Answers



  1. John D. Collins on Jul 28, 2012

    Most fixed tabs are to fine tune the trim the aircraft usually in cruise. They are typically riveted onto the rear of a control surface such as the aileron or rudder and are bent by hand to adjust the neutral point for the control.  For example if the right aileron has a tab, but the aircraft has a tendency to fly with a heavy right wing, you can bend the tab up, which will tend to force the aileron’s neutral point down, which in turn will lift the wing.

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  2. Lucas on Jul 30, 2012

    John is 100% correct, but I would avoid touching the tab unless you are sure of what you are doing. In most cases it is probably better to have a mechanic adjust it for you. I doubt they will charge you for it.
     
    Cheers Lucas

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