AME Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield AME facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. A maintenance technician is inspecting the combustion section of a gas turbine engine. Which of the following is a primary function of this section? → To add chemical energy to the compressed air by burning fuel at a constant pressure.
2. In an aircraft fire detection system, what does a 'thermal switch' type detector do? → Closes an electrical circuit when temperature exceeds a preset threshold
3. What is the importance of torqueing in aircraft maintenance? → To ensure fasteners are securely tightened to prevent safety hazards
4. What is the purpose of the aircraft's wing structure? → To generate lift and support the aircraft's weight
5. What does TDC stand for as used in reciprocating engine terminology? → Top Dead Center
6. Why is the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) critical to aviation safety? → It establishes and enforces aviation safety regulations and standards
7. An AME is inspecting a composite control surface and finds a defect where the layers of the laminate have separated. What is this type of damage called? → Delamination
8. Why is pilot training compliance crucial to aviation safety? → To ensure pilots meet safety standards and are qualified for safe flight operations
9. What is the primary function of applying carburetor heat in a piston-engine aircraft? → To prevent or eliminate ice formation inside the carburetor
10. Why is it essential to test the system after making a repair? → To confirm the repair was successful and the system operates as intended
11. What is the purpose of a fuel tank bladder (fuel cell)? → To provide a flexible, leak-resistant liner inside a structural fuel bay
12. What is the primary goal of aviation safety regulations? → To ensure the safety of passengers, crew, and aircraft
13. What does a low manifold absolute pressure (MAP) reading at full throttle indicate on a normally aspirated reciprocating engine? → A possible induction system air leak or restriction
14. Which FAA regulation governs the type certification of propellers? → 14 CFR Part 35
15. What is the function of an aircraft maintenance checklist? → To guide maintenance technicians and ensure all tasks are completed
16. What is the role of the aircraft's environmental control system? → To regulate temperature, pressure, and air quality in the cabin
17. What type of fire extinguishing agent is most commonly used in aircraft engine nacelle fire suppression systems? → Halon 1301 or approved replacements such as HFC-227ea
18. In the context of the SHEL model for analyzing human factors, which component represents the rules, procedures, and manuals used by maintenance personnel? → Software
19. An aircraft's turboprop engine utilizes its gas turbine core primarily to do what? → Drive a propeller through a reduction gearbox.
20. How does preventive maintenance help in troubleshooting? → By addressing issues early and preventing breakdowns
21. What is the primary safety advantage of a dual independent magneto ignition system in a reciprocating aircraft engine? → It provides redundancy so the engine continues running if one magneto fails
22. What is the function of an aircraft troubleshooting checklist? → To provide a systematic approach to diagnosing and fixing problems
23. During an annual inspection of a fixed-pitch propeller, which condition requires blade replacement rather than repair? → A crack of any length on the blade face
24. What type of lubrication system is standard on most horizontally-opposed aircraft reciprocating engines? → Wet sump with oil stored in the engine crankcase
25. What is the purpose of dynamic counterweights installed on an aircraft reciprocating engine crankshaft? → To dampen torsional vibration at critical resonant RPM ranges
26. What is the typical repair method for minor nicks and gouges on aluminum propeller blade leading edges? → Filing the nick smooth and blending it into the blade profile
27. Why are aircraft materials chosen for their strength-to-weight ratio? → To reduce fuel consumption and increase efficiency
28. What is the primary aerodynamic benefit of installing winglets on an aircraft's wingtips? → To reduce induced drag by weakening wingtip vortices.
29. Why is regular inspection of aircraft structures important? → To identify and prevent potential safety issues
30. What is the significance of air traffic control (ATC) regulations? → To guide aircraft safely and efficiently in the airspace