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Axes of an Aircraft

An aircraft's motion is defined around three imaginary axes that intersect at its center of gravity (CG). These axes are perpendicular to each other and represent the aircraft's ability to move in three dimensions.

1. Longitudinal Axis (Roll Axis)​

  • Orientation: Runs from the nose to the tail of the aircraft.
  • Movement: Rolling motion, where one wing goes up and the other goes down.

2. Lateral Axis (Pitch Axis)​

  • Orientation: Runs from wingtip to wingtip.
  • Movement: Pitching motion, where the nose moves up and down.

3. Vertical Axis (Yaw Axis)​

  • Orientation: Runs vertically through the CG.
  • Movement: Yawing motion, where the nose moves left and right.

Summary of Movements​

  • Roll: Rotation about the longitudinal axis, controlled by the ailerons.
  • Pitch: Rotation about the lateral axis, controlled by the elevators.
  • Yaw: Rotation about the vertical axis, controlled by the rudder.
AxisOrientationMovement
Longitudinal AxisRuns from the nose to the tail of the aircraftRolling motion, where one wing goes up and the other goes down.
Lateral AxisRuns from wingtip to wingtipPitching motion, where the nose moves up and down.
Vertical AxisRuns vertically through the CGYawing motion, where the nose moves left and right.

Understanding these axes and the corresponding motions is crucial for controlling an aircraft's attitude and direction during flight.

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