What is adverse yaw?

Adverse yaw is correctly defined as the tendency of an aircraft to yaw in the opposite direction of a roll. When an aircraft enters a turn, the aileron on the wing that is rising generates more lift, which also increases drag on that wing. Conversely, the aileron on the descending wing creates less lift and less drag. As a result, the aircraft tends to yaw towards the wing with the aileron that is deflected downward, which is the opposite direction of the intended turn. Understanding adverse yaw is crucial for pilots, as it highlights the importance of coordinating aileron and rudder inputs during turns to ensure a smooth and effective maneuver.

Recognizing this concept helps pilots anticipate and counteract unwanted yawing motions during turns, thereby enhancing overall control and safety of the flight.