AFOQT Practice Test

What defines the longitudinal axis of an aircraft?

1. Runs wingtip to wingtip

2. Runs from the top of the wing to the bottom

3. Runs lengthwise from the nose to the tail

4. Runs from the front of the cockpit to the rear

The correct answer is: Runs lengthwise from the nose to the tail

The longitudinal axis of an aircraft is defined as an imaginary line that runs lengthwise from the nose to the tail. This axis is critical for understanding how the aircraft moves through the air, particularly in terms of roll and yaw. The significance of the longitudinal axis lies in its use as a reference point for the aircraft's movement and orientation during flight. Control movements related to this axis, such as rolling an aircraft, involve rotation around this line. The other definitions mentioned do not accurately represent the longitudinal axis; instead, they describe different aspects of the aircraft's structure or orientation. The focus on the nose to tail line captures the essence of how the aircraft is designed and functions in three-dimensional space.