What is the primary control mechanism for pitch in the CRJ?

The primary control mechanism for pitch in the CRJ is the elevator. The elevator is located on the tail of the aircraft and is critical for controlling the aircraft's pitch attitude. When the elevator is deflected up or down, it changes the airflow and pressure over the horizontal stabilizer and the elevator itself. This change generates a moment that either raises or lowers the nose of the aircraft.

In simple terms, pulling back on the control yoke raises the elevators and causes the aircraft's nose to rise, allowing the plane to climb. Conversely, pushing forward lowers the elevators, causing the nose to descend, allowing the plane to descend. This direct control of pitch is essential for maintaining level flight, climbing, or descending as required during various phases of flight.

Other control surfaces like the rudder and ailerons have different primary functions; the rudder is primarily used for yaw control (side-to-side movement), and ailerons control roll (rotation about the longitudinal axis). Throttle affects the overall engine power and speed but does not directly control pitch. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for pilots, particularly in managing the aircraft's attitude and performance during flight.