This study presents a comprehensive analysis of the aerodynamic performance and material selection for the ailerons of the Cessna 172 Skyhawk, a pivotal small fixed-wing general aircraft, aiming to enhance its structural efficiency and operational reliability. Using computational fluid dynamics with the STAR-CCM + platform, the research investigates the flow field characteristics and pressure filed around ailerons under upward and downward deflections. The simulations reveal that downward deflection increases the airfoil’s effective curvature, amplifying velocity differences between the upper and lower surfaces to enhance lift by optimizing pressure distribution, whereas upward deflection reduces upper-surface airflow velocity and lift, highlighting the asymmetric aerodynamic impacts of aileron movements. Critical findings include the concentration of peak aerodynamic pressures at the aileron leading edge during both deflection states, underscoring the component’s exposure to high cyclic loads. Leveraging the CES EduPack, the study evaluates candidate materials against stringent criteria such as thermal stability, corrosion resistance, and fatigue performance, identifying aluminum matrix silicon nitride particle-reinforced composites as the optimal material. This composite exhibit superior mechanical properties, including a fatigue strength of 236–276 MPa, a low thermal expansion coefficient, and robust resistance to UV, salt, and acidic environments, while reducing structural weight compared to traditional aluminum alloys.