Define longitudinal stability.

Definition should include the following concepts:

• There is a range of CG limits acceptable for an aircraft.
• Longitudinal stability is the quality that makes an airplane stable about its lateral axis.
• Longitudinal stability involves the pitching motion as the airplane’s nose moves up and down in flight.
• A longitudinally unstable airplane tends to dive or climb progressively into a very steep dive or climb, or even a stall.
• A longitudinally unstable airplane becomes difficult and sometimes dangerous to fly.

PLT213

Process/Skill Questions:

• How is the range of CG limits acceptable for an aircraft related to weight and balance?
• What is an airplane's lateral axis?