Spoilers are used primarily as what?

• A. Breaks air flow to reduce lift
• B. Used primarily as speed control devices for in-flight and ground operation
• C. Only used on landing
• D. Primary roll control surfaces

Answer: (B)

Spoilers act as speed control devices by disrupting the airflow to increase drag and reduce lift. That combination lets a pilot manage descent rate and airspeed in flight, and also aids deceleration on the runway after touchdown because the increased drag and reduced lift put more load on the wheels, making braking more effective. While lifting is reduced by spoilers, that effect is the mechanism that enables faster speed control, not the only purpose. Remember, primary roll control is handled by the aircraft’s ailerons, though some designs can use spoilers to assist roll (spoilerons). Spoilers aren’t used only on landing; they’re employed during approach, descent, and ground rollout to manage speed and deceleration.