Vertical Axis
What is vertical axis?
The vertical axis is an imaginary straight line passing vertically through the aircraft's center of gravity, perpendicular to both the lateral and longitudinal axes. Movement around this axis is called yaw, which is controlled by the rudder. Think of it as the axis a spinning top turns around—the airplane's nose swings left or right while the wings stay level.
Also known as: yaw axis, z-axis, normal axis
Studying for an FAA written test?
Terms like vertical axis show up on the FAA knowledge test. Study them in context with ACS-aligned practice questions, AI explanations, and the cited FAA handbook reference behind every answer — free to start.