An elevon merges the functions of an elevator and an aileron into a single movable surface, typically found on the trailing edge of delta-wing aircraft or spaceplanes. Moving them symmetrically controls pitch, while moving them asymmetrically controls roll. This design saves weight and reduces drag by eliminating the need for a separate horizontal tail.
Heard on the job
The flight control computer automatically mixes the inputs to deflect the left elevon up and the right elevon down for the turn.
Do not mix it up with
- Elevator: Elevons handle both pitch and roll on a delta wing, whereas elevators only handle pitch on a traditional tail.