How do speed brakes assist in flight control?

Speed brakes play a crucial role in flight control by increasing drag and decreasing lift, which ultimately helps to slow the aircraft down. When deployed, speed brakes create additional resistance against the aircraft's forward motion, allowing pilots to reduce speed more effectively without needing to adjust engine thrust immediately.

Increasing drag affects the aircraft's overall aerodynamic performance, helping to lower its speed and descent rate when necessary, particularly during landing or when entering a holding pattern. Additionally, with speed brakes extended, lift is reduced, which assists in controlling the aircraft's descent rate, allowing for smoother and more controlled landings.

This function of speed brakes is particularly important during phases of flight where keeping a controlled descent speed is essential, thus enhancing overall safety and precision in flying operations.