What is aileron roll?

An aileron roll is an aerobatic maneuver where an aircraft performs a complete 360-degree roll around its longitudinal axis. This maneuver involves using the ailerons, which are hinged control surfaces on the wings of an aircraft that move in opposite directions to create a rolling motion.

During an aileron roll, the pilot will typically first pitch the aircraft up to gain altitude and then apply aileron input to initiate the roll. As the aircraft rolls, the pilot will use coordinated rudder input to maintain the aircraft's heading and altitude throughout the maneuver. Once the aircraft completes the roll, the pilot will level off the wings and pitch the aircraft back to the desired flight path.

Aileron rolls are commonly performed in airshows and aerobatic competitions to showcase the agility and maneuverability of an aircraft. They are also a standard maneuver taught to pilots during flight training to help them develop their skills in controlling the aircraft in various flight regimes.