FAA Cheat Sheet 2026

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

1. Which condition would cause the altimeter to indicate a lower altitude than actually flown (true altitude)? → Air temperature warmer than standard
2. When are the four forces that act on an airplane in equilibrium? → During unaccelerated flight.
3. 10. What are the minimum requirements for airplane operations under special VFR in Class D airspace at night? → The pilot must be instrument rated, and the airplane must be IFR equipped.
4. When flying a back course localizer approach without a course deviation correction feature, the CDI exhibits what behavior? → Reverse sensing
5. (Refer to Figure 24). Determine the magnetic course from Airpark East Airport (area 1) to Winnsboro Airport (area 2). Magnetic variation is 6°30'E. → 075°.
6. What is the purpose of the Maltese cross symbol on an instrument approach chart profile view? → It marks the final approach fix for a nonprecision approach
7. Who holds final authority and responsibility when a visual observer is used? → The remote pilot in command
8. Why is frost considered hazardous to flight? → Frost spoils the smooth flow of air over the wings, thereby decreasing lifting capability.
9. A NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions) is primarily used to: → Notify pilots of temporary changes or hazards that may affect flight safety
10. Why should drone pilots maintain visual line of sight (VLOS)? → To ensure situational awareness and safety
11. Which instrument provides the most pertinent information for pitch control in straight and level flight? → Altimeter
12. When warm, moist, stable air flows upslope, it → produces stratus type clouds.
13. A military air station can be identified by a rotating beacon that emits → two quick, white flashes between green flashes.
14. (Refer to Figure 19.) How are Significant Weather Prognostic Charts best used by a pilot? → For determining areas to avoid (freezing levels and turbulence).
15. When cleared to 'cross ABC intersection at or above 5,000', what is the lowest altitude the pilot may cross ABC? → 5,000 feet
16. Which types of airspace are depicted on the En Route Low Altitude Chart? → Limits of f controlled airspace, military routes and special use airspace
17. Except in Alaska, during what time period should lighted position lights be displayed on an aircraft? → Sunset to sunrise.
18. What feature is normally associated with the cumulus stage of a thunderstorm? → Continuous updraft.
19. (Refer to Figure 20, area 1.) What minimum radio equipment is required to land and take off at Norfolk International? → Mode C transponder and two-way radio.
20. What does a Sectional Chart provide for drone pilots? → Details about terrain and airspace
21. During an unusual attitude recovery from a nose-high, low-airspeed condition on instruments, the pilot should first do what? → Add power, lower the nose, and level the wings
22. Which procedure is recommended to ensure that the emergency locator transmitter (ELT) has not been activated? → Monitor 121.5 before engine shutdown.
23. In weight and balance calculations, arm is → the distance from the datum line to the item.
24. Which condition most affects barometric pressure sensors in drones? → Sudden weather changes
25. The amount of water vapor which air can hold depends on the → air temperature.
26. What does TFR stand for? → Temporary Flight Restriction
27. How does icing affect drones? → It decreases lift and adds weight
28. In the terminal radar program, TRSA Service provides → sequencing and separation for participating VFR aircraft.
29. You've been recruited to inspect the railroad tracks between Blencoe (SE of Sioux City) and Onawa with your small UAS. Will the ATC's authorization be required? → No, your entire flight is in Class G airspace.
30. One of the most easily recognized discontinuities across a front is → a change in temperature.