Tail configurations: stabilator, canard, V-tail
Most aircraft: fixed horizontal stabilizer + hinged elevator (see flight-controls). Three other layouts:
| Layout | Design | Control |
|---|---|---|
| Stabilator | Whole horizontal tail is one piece, pivots on central hinge, no separate elevator | Aft column raises trailing edge: nose up. Forward column lowers trailing edge: nose down |
| Canard | Horizontal surface sits forward of main wing | Forward surface generates lift, holds nose up directly. Conventional aft tail pushes DOWN to do so |
| V-tail (ruddervator) | Two slanted surfaces replace horizontal and vertical tail. Each fixed panel is both horizontal and vertical stabilizer | Movable panels (ruddervators) linked: control wheel moves both together for pitch. Rudder pedals move them differentially (one opposite the other) for yaw |
Stabilator extras:
- Extremely sensitive to control inputs and aerodynamic loads.
- Balance weight ahead of main spar (or built into tips) offsets sensitivity.
- Antiservo tab stiffens feel (see
trim-techniquefor how it moves).
Trap: swapping the three. Stabilator = whole tail pivots on one hinge. Canard = tail surface at the FRONT. V-tail = one slanted pair doing both elevator and rudder jobs.
References
- FAA-H-8083-25 PHAK ch.6 (Stabilator, Canard, V-Tail)