Dutch roll (figure 1.1) is a consequence of too much dihedral effect, from the combination of actual dihedral, sweep-back, a high wing configuration, relatively small vertical tail or other factors.

In Dutch roll, the airplane makes a continuous back-and-forth rolling and yawing motion. In general Dutch roll is dynamically stable. This means the oscillations tend to decrease in amplitude. If the oscillations are damped weakly the motion may continue for a long period of time. Dutch roll can be aggravated in some airplanes in case the pilot attempts to correct it.