What allows an aircraft to maintain a steady descent at slower speeds during landing?

The deployment of flaps is crucial for allowing an aircraft to maintain a steady descent at slower speeds during landing. When flaps are extended, they increase the wing's surface area and change its camber, effectively enhancing the lift generated at lower airspeeds. This added lift allows the aircraft to fly safely at slower speeds without stalling, offering better control and stability during the landing phase. Additionally, the increased drag from deployed flaps helps the pilot manage the descent rate without excessive use of power, allowing for a smoother approach to the runway.

In contrast, while ailerons are primarily used for controlling lateral balance and roll during flight, they do not contribute to slower descent rates. Adjusting throttle can influence descent rates, but it does not directly allow for stable descents at lower speeds as effectively as flaps do. Utilizing elevator trim also assists in stabilizing the pitch attitude of the aircraft but does not specifically help achieve slower speeds during landing.