are the lateral atlantoaxial joints the same as apophyseal joints?

Question

are they plane joints as well?

Answer 1

No!

Apophyseal joint:
The articulations between the articular facets of adjacent vertebrae, also known as facet joints. The apophyseal joints have thin and loose articular capsules as well as a synovial membrane and menisci.

The Atlanto-axial joint (articulation of the atlas with the axis) is of a complicated nature, comprising no fewer than four distinct joints.
There is a pivot articulation between the odontoid process of the axis and the ring formed by the anterior arch and the transverse ligament of the atlas; here there are two joints: one between the posterior surface of the anterior arch of the atlas and the front of the odontoid process; the other between the anterior surface of the ligament and the back of the process.
Between the articular processes of the two bones there is on either side an arthrodial or gliding joint.
The ligaments connecting these bones are:
Articular capsules
Anterior atlantoaxial ligament
Posterior atlantoaxial ligament
Transverse ligament

Hope that this helps

Answer 2

Apophyseal Joints