What happens if the yaw damper is engaged improperly?

Engaging the yaw damper improperly can lead to erratic flight behavior in an aircraft. The yaw damper is designed to enhance stability by reducing adverse yaw and preventing unwanted rolling motions during turns. When it is not engaged correctly, it may fail to counteract yaw forces appropriately, which can result in the aircraft exhibiting unpredictable movements or oscillations. This detrimental behavior can make it difficult for the pilot to maintain controlled flight, leading to potential safety risks.

The other options do not accurately describe the consequences of improper yaw damper engagement. For example, the suggestion that the aircraft functions as intended (the first choice) contradicts the very purpose of the yaw damper, while the claim that it disables the autopilot (the third option) misrepresents the relationship between the yaw damper and autopilot systems. Lastly, stating that it has no effect on flight operations (the fourth option) undermines the critical role that the yaw damper plays in maintaining smooth and stable flight.