What is the purpose of the yaw damper?

The purpose of a yaw damper is to automatically control unwanted yaw movements in an aircraft. Yaw refers to the side-to-side motion of the aircraft's nose, which can be influenced by various factors such as turbulence, asymmetrical thrust, or uneven loading. When yaw occurs, it can affect the stability and control of the aircraft, making it challenging for the pilot to maintain a straight flight path.

The yaw damper system helps to minimize this unwanted yaw by making small, automatic adjustments to the aircraft's control surfaces, particularly the rudder. By doing so, it improves overall handling and enhances safety, especially during autopilot operations or in conditions where the pilot may be preoccupied. The yaw damper is particularly important in larger aircraft where the effects of yaw can be more pronounced.

The other choices relate to different systems within the aircraft, such as engine performance, fuel monitoring, and cabin pressure regulation, which do not deal directly with the control of yaw dynamics.