What does "empennage" refer to in aviation terminology?

In aviation terminology, "empennage" specifically refers to the tail assembly of an aircraft. This critical component consists of the horizontal stabilizer and the vertical stabilizer, which are essential for providing stability and control in flight. The horizontal stabilizer helps prevent pitch changes (nose up or down), while the vertical stabilizer aids in controlling yaw (side-to-side movement). Together, these elements work to ensure the aircraft maintains a steady flight path and responds appropriately to the pilot's control inputs.

Understanding this term is important for aviation professionals, as the empennage plays a vital role in an aircraft's aerodynamic performance. The other choices represent different parts of an aircraft that do not accurately define what an empennage is, focusing instead on areas such as the main wing structure, propulsion systems, and cockpit, which serve distinct functions and are located at different sections of the aircraft.