What is the function of the elevator in the empennage?

The elevator's primary function is to control the pitch of the aircraft. It is located on the horizontal stabilizer at the empennage, and when the pilot moves the control yoke or stick, the elevator deflects up or down. This movement alters the airflow over the tail section of the aircraft, creating a change in lift at the tail, which in turn tilts the nose of the aircraft up or down. This allows the aircraft to ascend or descend as desired. Understanding the elevator's function is critical for pilots as it directly influences the aircraft's ability to maintain altitude or change altitude during flight.