Definition
A small, hinged surface attached to the trailing edge of a primary flight control surface (such as an elevator, aileron, or rudder) that the pilot moves directly through the cockpit controls to deflect the larger surface aerodynamically. Used on aircraft where the primary control surface is too large for the pilot to move directly against airflow loads, the control tab itself is moved into the airstream, and the resulting aerodynamic force pushes the main control surface in the opposite direction.
Plain English
A small flap on the back edge of a flight control surface. The pilot moves the small flap, and the airflow pushing on it forces the bigger surface to move. It's a way to use the wind itself to do the heavy lifting.
Context Anchor
Seen in discussions of flight controls, especially on aircraft where air loads on the controls can be high.
Derivation
From Latin 'controllare' (to check or regulate) and 'tab' (a small projecting flap or strip). The name describes the function literally: a small flap used to control a larger surface.
Why Pilots Care
Reduces control forces at higher airspeeds, lowers pilot workload, and improves handling qualities without requiring powered controls.
Analogy
It is like using a small handle to move a larger door. The handle is not the door, but moving it helps you move the door more easily.
Intuition Check
Do not read “control tab” as just any tab used for adjustment. In this aviation use, it is a small movable surface that helps move a larger flight control surface.
Example Sentence 1
On large transport aircraft, the pilot's input moves the control tab on the elevator, and aerodynamic force on that tab swings the elevator into position.
Example Sentence 2
On the high-speed jet, control tabs on the ailerons allowed the pilot to roll the aircraft smoothly without excessive stick force.