Plain English Meaning

The small wing-like surface at the back of the aircraft that keeps the nose steady and lets the pilot point it up or down.

Full Definition

The horizontal stabilizing surface at the rear of an aircraft, typically including a fixed horizontal stabilizer and a movable elevator (or a single all-moving stabilator). Its job is to provide pitch stability and pitch control by generating an aerodynamic load that balances the aircraft and lets the pilot raise or lower the nose.

Context Anchor

Seen in discussions of structural icing, especially tailplane icing and tailplane stall during approach and landing.