Flight Operations and Navigation Flashcards

What is the definition of 'absolute altitude'?

Answer: Height above the terrain directly below the aircraft

Absolute altitude is the actual height of the aircraft above the terrain (AGL — above ground level) directly beneath it.

An ASOS/AWOS reports visibility as '1/4SM'. Under FAR Part 91, a pilot may take off VFR if the reported visibility is at least:

Answer: There is no minimum for takeoff under VFR

FAR 91.155 establishes VFR flight visibility minimums but Part 91 imposes no specific takeoff visibility minimum; however, pilots must maintain VFR once airborne.

Which component of the navigation log is used to correct for wind during flight planning?

Answer: Wind correction angle (WCA)

The wind correction angle (WCA) is applied to the true course to establish the true heading needed to track the desired course given the wind.

A pilot plans a flight at 10,000 feet MSL, true airspeed 150 knots, with a 30-knot direct headwind. What is the groundspeed?

Answer: 120 knots

A direct headwind reduces groundspeed; 150 knots TAS minus 30 knots headwind equals 120 knots groundspeed.

What is the meaning of a flashing white light signal from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground?

Answer: Return to starting point on the airport

A flashing white light signal from the tower to an aircraft on the ground means return to starting point on the airport.

When planning an IFR alternate airport, the standard alternate minimums require a precision approach to have a ceiling of at least:

Answer: 600 feet and 2 SM visibility

Standard IFR alternate minimums for airports with a precision approach are 600-foot ceiling and 2 SM visibility at the ETA.

A pilot is on a magnetic heading of 270° and observes the NDB bearing pointer pointing to 045° relative. What is the magnetic bearing TO the station?

Answer: 315°

Magnetic bearing TO the station = magnetic heading + relative bearing = 270° + 045° = 315° (magnetic).