Definition
Control surfaces on the trailing edge of the wing that combine the functions of flaps and ailerons. They can move together symmetrically (downward on both wings) to act as flaps for added lift, and differentially (one up, one down) to act as ailerons for roll control.
Plain English
A single set of wing surfaces that does two jobs at once — they help the airplane lift off and slow down like flaps, and they also tilt the airplane left or right like ailerons.
Context Anchor
Seen during preflight control checks, aircraft systems descriptions, and takeoff or landing procedures on airplanes equipped with flaperons.
Derivation
A blended word made from flap + aileron — the name itself tells you it does the work of both.
Why Pilots Care
They simplify the wing by replacing two separate surfaces, which can reduce weight and drag while still allowing full control of roll and lift.
Intuition Check
Do not think of flaperons as separate flaps and ailerons installed side by side. A flaperon is one surface that performs both roles.
Example Sentence 1
The light sport airplane uses flaperons instead of separate flaps and ailerons to keep the wing design simple.
Example Sentence 2
On this aircraft the flaperons also served as ailerons, letting the pilot roll left or right without separate surfaces.