Definition
The simultaneous, balanced use of rudder and ailerons during a turn so that the airplane rolls and yaws together, keeping the longitudinal axis aligned with the flight path and preventing slipping or skidding. When the ailerons are deflected to bank the airplane, the rudder is applied in the same direction and in the right amount to counter adverse yaw and maintain coordinated flight.
Plain English
Using the rudder pedals and the control wheel together so the airplane turns smoothly, with the nose tracking properly through the turn instead of sliding sideways.
Context Anchor
Encountered during steep-turn training, especially while rolling into the turn, holding a steady bank, and rolling out on the desired heading.
Derivation
Rudder comes from an old word for a steering oar on a boat, which helps because the airplane rudder also helps steer the nose left or right. Aileron comes from French and means “little wing,” which fits because ailerons are small wing surfaces that help roll the airplane into or out of a bank. Coordination means making separate actions work together.
Why Pilots Care
Proper coordination prevents slips and skids that waste lift, increase drag, and raise the risk of loss of control during turns.
Intuition Check
Do not assume coordination means moving the rudder and ailerons the same amount or holding them together. It means using the correct amount of each control so the airplane turns smoothly and stays aligned with the turn.
Example Sentence 1
Rolling into the steep turn, the pilot used smooth rudder/aileron coordination to keep the inclinometer ball centered.
Example Sentence 2
If the inclinometer ball moves toward the outside of the turn, additional rudder pressure restores proper rudder/aileron coordination.