Quick Facts
- Type
- Axis of Rotation
- Definition
- Rotation about the aircraft's vertical axis
- Used By
- Pilots
Definition#
Yaw is the rotation of an aircraft about its vertical (normal) axis. Yawing left turns the nose to the left; yawing right turns the nose to the right. It is one of the three axes of aircraft rotation.
Why It Matters Operationally#
Yaw is controlled by the rudder and must be coordinated with roll during turns. Uncontrolled yaw (from engine failure, crosswinds, or adverse yaw) can lead to loss of control.
Related Guides#
- Control Surfaces Explained (Ailerons, Rudder, Elevator)
- How Airplanes Fly — The Complete Aviation Fundamentals Guide
- Crosswind Explained