Abstract: A rudder gust control lock device is disclosed for securing the rudder and vertical stabilizer of single and twin engine airplanes to each other. The device includes a partial collet having a substantially U-shaped cross section and paired opposed flanges that extend from the extremities of the collet in a direction transverse to its longitudinal dimension. The collet is adapted to receive a leading edge of the rudder, and the flanges are adapted to slidably engage the adjacent surfaces of the stabilizer when the device is shifted along the rudder. A handle is included, that is attached to one of the flanges and extends in substantially the same direction as that flange, to enable the operator to grasp the device during installation and removal. A flag is also included, attached to the handle, to serve as a warning and reminder to the operator that the device is in position.