What are the primary flight controls of an aircraft?

The primary flight controls of an aircraft are ailerons, elevators, and rudder, which enable the pilot to control the aircraft's orientation and movement around its three axes. Ailerons are located on the wings and control roll by allowing one wing to rise while the other descends, thereby enabling lateral control and navigation during turns. Elevators are found on the tail of the aircraft and manage pitch, allowing the aircraft to ascend or descend. The rudder, also located on the tail, controls yaw, helping to maintain coordinated flight and manage aircraft direction.

This combination of controls is essential for the fundamental operation of an aircraft and is crucial for achieving smooth, controlled flight. In contrast, other components listed in the other choices, such as flaps, slats, and spoilers, primarily aid in enhancing lift or controlling airflow but do not serve as primary means of controlling directional flight. Trim tabs adjust the position of primary controls for ease of handling but are not categorized as primary controls themselves. Similarly, while the throttle controls engine power, and the yoke and rudder pedals are used for controlling the aircraft, they are not considered primary flight controls but rather mechanisms to interface with those controls.