Movement of the ailerons rotates an airplane about which axis?

Study for the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

Movement of the ailerons rotates an airplane about which axis?

Explanation:
Ailerons are used to produce rotation about the aircraft’s longitudinal axis—the line from nose to tail. When the ailerons move in opposite directions, one wing’s lift increases while the other’s decreases, causing the airplane to bank or roll to one side. This rolling motion is called rotation about the roll axis. The pitch axis is the lateral axis (wingtip to wingtip) controlled by the elevator, and the yaw axis is the vertical axis (left-right) controlled by the rudder. The normal axis isn’t a standard aviation axis.

Ailerons are used to produce rotation about the aircraft’s longitudinal axis—the line from nose to tail. When the ailerons move in opposite directions, one wing’s lift increases while the other’s decreases, causing the airplane to bank or roll to one side. This rolling motion is called rotation about the roll axis. The pitch axis is the lateral axis (wingtip to wingtip) controlled by the elevator, and the yaw axis is the vertical axis (left-right) controlled by the rudder. The normal axis isn’t a standard aviation axis.

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