What direction does the trim tab move when the cockpit control is moved towards the nosedown position?

When the cockpit control is moved towards the nosedown position, the trim tab moves upward. This relationship is due to the design of the trim tab system, which functions to counteract control surface deflections and maintain aircraft level flight with reduced pilot workload.

When the control is pushed down, it causes the elevator to deflect downwards, increasing the downforce on the tail of the aircraft and pitching the nose down. To counterbalance this movement, the trim tab must move upward. By doing so, it generates a force that offsets the elevator's downward movement, helping stabilize the aircraft’s attitude. This interplay allows the pilot to maintain the desired flight angle without constantly applying pressure to the control yoke or stick.

This mechanism is crucial for ease of control and flight efficiency, effectively allowing pilots to make subtle adjustments to the aircraft's trim condition, ensuring that it flies straight and level with minimal effort.