What does the fuselage house?
The cabin and flight deck
The fuselage also provides attachment points for other major airplane components.
Where can wings be attached on the fuselage?
Top, middle, or lower portion
Wings are contoured to take maximum advantage of the lifting force created by the passing airflow.
What components typically make up the empennage?
- Vertical stabilizer
- Rudder
- Horizontal stabilizer
- Elevator
These components help to steady the airplane and maintain a straight path through the air.
How is the elevator adjusted?
By a control wheel or stick through a system of cables, pulleys, and other connecting devices
Pulling back on the wheel or stick causes the elevator to move up, pitching the airplane’s nose up.
What is the function of ailerons?
Create aerodynamic forces to roll the airplane in and out of turns
Ailerons are located on the outside portion of each wing.
What do trim devices do?
Help minimize workload by aerodynamically assisting in moving a control surface or maintaining it in a desired position
Trim devices improve control during flight.
What is conventional landing gear?
Landing gear with a rear-mounted wheel
Airplanes with this type of gear are called tailwheel airplanes.
What is tricycle gear?
Landing gear with the third wheel located on the nose
This design contrasts with conventional landing gear.
How do you apply the brakes in an airplane?
By pressing on the top of each rudder pedal
Equal pressure on left and right brakes stops or slows the airplane in a straight line.
What are the functions of the engine?
- Provides power to turn the propeller
- Generates electrical energy
- Creates vacuum power for flight instruments
- Provides heat for pilot and passengers in single-engine airplanes
The engine is a critical component of airplane operation.
What does the propeller do?
Translates the rotational force of the engine into thrust
This thrust moves the airplane forward through the air.
What materials do modern airplane engineers favor for construction?
Composite materials
These materials, such as carbon fiber, Kevlar, and fiberglass, are stronger and not vulnerable to corrosion.
What were many early airplanes built with?
- Wood
- Fabric
These materials were abundant and easy to access.
Why do airplane manufacturers continue to use metals?
- Strong and durable
- Easy to manufacture and form into components
- Weather resistant
Common metals used include steel, aluminum, and titanium.
What is a drawback of metal in airplane construction?
It can be easy to dent
Although metal is not easy to crack, its susceptibility to denting depends on the airplane’s design.
What does the acronym ARROW stand for in aviation documentation?
Airworthiness certificate; Registration; Radio station class license; Operating limitations; Weight and balance data
This acronym helps pilots remember the required documentation before flying.
What is required by the FAA for all currently-manufactured airplanes?
An FAA approved airplane flight manual (AFM) must be accessible during flight
The AFM is specifically assigned to the individual airplane.
What can be designated as the AFM to satisfy regulatory requirements?
The pilot’s operating handbook (POH)
The POH contains pertinent information about the specific make and model of the airplane.
When can you not fly an aircraft?
Unless it has received an annual inspection and an ELT inspection within the previous 12 calendar months
These inspections are critical for ensuring the aircraft’s airworthiness.
How often are transponder inspections required?
Every 24 calendar months for all flights
This requirement ensures that the aircraft’s transponder is functioning properly.
What inspections are required every 24 calendar months if the aircraft is flown under IFR?
Altimeter and static system inspections
These inspections are essential for maintaining IFR flight safety.
What type of inspections are required on aircraft used for hire?
100-hour inspections
This applies to aircraft, including those used for flight instructing.
Who must conduct required inspections on an aircraft?
An appropriately certificated aviation maintenance technician (AMT)
Documentation of these inspections must be recorded in the aircraft’s maintenance records.
What must happen if an alteration or repair substantially affects the operation of an aircraft in flight?
The aircraft must be test flown by at least a private pilot and approved for return to service
This ensures the safety and reliability of the aircraft after significant changes.
