In what direction does the horizontal stabilizer produce lift?

The correct answer is that the horizontal stabilizer produces lift downward. This is due to the aerodynamic design and function of the horizontal stabilizer, which is typically located at the rear of an aircraft.

When the aircraft is in flight, the wings generate lift to keep the airplane airborne. However, this lift also creates a center of gravity that could cause the aircraft to pitch up or down. The horizontal stabilizer plays a crucial role in maintaining longitudinal stability by generating a downward force. This downward lift counteracts the tendency of the aircraft to pitch upward and helps to balance the overall aerodynamic forces acting on the airplane.

By producing this downward force, the horizontal stabilizer ensures that the aircraft remains level or in a controlled pitch attitude, contributing to the overall stability and control during flight.