Question

Which of the following motions is primarily associated with lateral stability of an aircraft?

• A. Pitch
• B. Roll
• C. Yaw
• D. Heave
• E. Surge

Hint:

A simple way to remember:
Lateral Stability $\rightarrow$ Longitudinal Axis $\rightarrow$ Roll.
Directional Stability $\rightarrow$ Vertical Axis $\rightarrow$ Yaw.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Stability in aircraft design refers to the tendency of the aircraft to return to its original flight path after a disturbance.
There are three main types of stability corresponding to the three axes of flight.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
1. Longitudinal Stability: Relates to the stability about the lateral axis, which involves the Pitch motion.
2. Lateral Stability: Relates to the stability about the longitudinal axis (nose-to-tail), which involves the Roll motion.
3. Directional Stability: Relates to the stability about the vertical axis, which involves the Yaw motion.
Lateral stability is the aircraft's ability to resist rolling or to return to a wings-level position when one wing is dipped by a gust.
Design features like "Dihedral" (upward angle of the wings) are specifically used to enhance lateral stability.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Roll is the motion primarily associated with the lateral stability of an aircraft.