Last week we talked about what a rudder actually does, this week, let’s talk about the phrase every student pilot hears from their instructor: “More right rudder!”
When you’re at full power on takeoff or climbing out, the airplane naturally wants to yaw (turn) to the left because of how the propeller spins. To keep things straight, you apply right rudder, it’s a small correction that keeps the aircraft balanced and pointed in the right direction.
I can hear you wondering, "What if on take-off you don't use the right rudder enough?" Well. On initial rollout you may end up off the left side of the runway, and if you do take-off, you'll continue veering to the left. Which per "the rules" you have to fly runway heading till you turn on course, so not using it puts you in a trajectory you're not supposed to be! And not being where you are supposed to be or are expected is dangerous!
When you’re learning to fly, “more right rudder” becomes second nature. It’s a reminder that balance in motion isn’t automatic ... it takes awareness, subtle corrections, and a light touch.
Those small adjustments can make all the difference between veering off course and staying steady on climb-out.
