How is the F/A-18 E/F primarily controlled during flight?

The primary method of controlling the F/A-18 E/F during flight involves the use of flight control surfaces and avionics systems. The aircraft is equipped with a variety of control surfaces, such as ailerons, elevators, and rudders, which maneuver the aircraft's orientation and direction in the air. These surfaces work in conjunction with advanced avionics systems that enhance stability, navigation, and responsiveness, allowing pilots to execute precise movements and maintain control under various flight conditions.

Manual controls, while important for pilot input, are part of a broader system that includes these automated and electronic aspects. The reliance on autopilot systems is not exclusive; rather, they are designed to assist the pilot, enabling the aircraft to fly efficiently and reducing workload during certain phases of flight. Ground control communication is also not a primary means of controlling the aircraft in the air; instead, it serves a supportive role in coordinating operations before takeoff and after landing. Therefore, the combination of flight control surfaces and avionics establishes the primary control mechanism for the F/A-18 E/F in flight.