Phugoid Motion in Aviation: What It Is and Why It Matters
Pilot Institute
JUNE 2, 2025
If youre visualizing tossing and turning, such as caused by turbulence, stop. Turbulence or gusts: Bumps from wind gusts or turbulence give an initial disturbance in pitch that induces phugoid. Notice the altimeter needle swing up and down gently, up to a few hundred feet. Thats completely different.
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