What are the three axes of an aircraft?

The three axes of an aircraft are the lateral, longitudinal, and vertical axes. Understanding these axes is fundamental to grasping how an aircraft moves and is controlled in three-dimensional space.

The lateral axis runs from wingtip to wingtip and is primarily associated with pitch movements, such as when the aircraft's nose goes up or down during climb or descent. The longitudinal axis extends from the nose to the tail of the aircraft and is associated with roll movements, as when the aircraft tilts to one side or the other during a turn. The vertical axis runs vertically through the center of the aircraft and is related to yaw movements, which involve turning the aircraft’s nose left or right.

This classification of axes is essential for pilots to understand aircraft dynamics and control. Knowing how these axes relate to the aircraft's movement helps in controlling the aircraft effectively during various maneuvers.