Definition
The yawing and rolling tendency caused by the spiraling slipstream from the propeller striking the left side of the vertical stabilizer (in most U.S.-built single-engine aircraft, where the propeller rotates clockwise as seen from the cockpit). This sideways push on the tail produces a left-yawing moment, most pronounced at high power settings and low airspeeds.
Plain English
The propeller throws a twisting column of air backward over the airplane. That spinning air hits the tail from one side and pushes the nose to the left, especially when power is high and the airplane is moving slowly.
Context Anchor
Seen in discussions of propeller-driven airplane handling, especially takeoff, climb, and other high-power, low-speed situations.
Derivation
Named after the corkscrew — a tool that pulls in a spiral path. The slipstream from the propeller wraps around the fuselage in the same spiral shape, which is why the effect carries the name.
Why Pilots Care
It creates a left yaw that must be countered with right rudder during high-power, low-speed phases to maintain directional control.
Grounding Statement
Picture the propeller throwing a twisting tube of air backward around the airplane, with that twisting air pushing against the tail.
Intuition Check
Do not read corkscrew effect as meaning the airplane itself flies in a corkscrew path. Here it means the propeller’s airflow spirals backward and creates a sideways push on the tail.
Example Sentence 1
As the student advanced the throttle for takeoff, the corkscrew effect pushed the nose left, and right rudder kept the airplane on the centerline.
Example Sentence 2
At full power in the initial climb the corkscrew effect increased, requiring steady right rudder pressure to keep the nose straight.