SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/pilot-step-on-ball

If the inclinometer ball is left of center, which rudder should you press?

Press the left rudder, or step on the ball.

Start playing free

  1. Right rudder
  2. Neither rudder
  3. Left rudder ✔

Why: The ball shows uncoordinated yaw. Pressing the rudder pedal on the ball's side moves it toward center and restores coordination.

Huh, didn't know that: A centered ball indicates coordinated flight, whether straight or turning.

The dad joke
The ball asked for a step, so the rudder put its best foot forward.
Like this card?
Play the game

References

Answer: Left rudder. The ball shows uncoordinated yaw. Pressing the rudder pedal on the ball's side moves it toward center and restores coordination.

  1. Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Chapter 8 www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/aviation/phak/10_phak_ch8.pdf
    To center the ball, apply rudder pressure on the side to which the ball is deflected.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

Think this answer is wrong? Tap "Challenge this answer" on the card in the game and tell us why.

Test yourself in the game

Flying & DronesA blocked pitot tube affects which instrument?Flying & DronesWhen a pilot switches to the cabin alternate static source, the altimeter usually reads what?Flying & DronesAccelerating on an east or west heading, the magnetic compass shows what in the Northern Hemisphere?

That's stuff everyone should know.