SIFT Aviation Knowledge 3

Question 1

What is the 'phonetic alphabet' used in aviation radio communications?

Accepted Answer

NATO phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie...)

Answer

Aviation uses the NATO phonetic alphabet (Alpha, Bravo, Charlie, Delta, etc.) to prevent confusion when spelling out letters over radio communications.

Question 2

What does 'ceiling' mean in aviation weather?

Accepted Answer

The height of the lowest broken or overcast cloud layer above ground level

Answer

In aviation weather, ceiling is the height above ground level of the lowest layer of clouds that is reported as broken (5/8 to 7/8 coverage) or overcast (8/8 coverage).

Question 3

What is 'stall speed' and what causes a stall?

Accepted Answer

The minimum airspeed at which the wings can produce enough lift; a stall occurs when the critical angle of attack is exceeded

Answer

A stall occurs when the angle of attack exceeds the critical angle (typically 15-20°), causing airflow to separate from the wing surface and lift to rapidly decrease, regardless of airspeed.

Question 4

What does a transponder do in aviation?

Accepted Answer

Responds to radar interrogation signals with the aircraft's identity and altitude

Answer

A transponder automatically responds to secondary surveillance radar interrogations, broadcasting a 4-digit code (squawk code) and, with Mode C/S, the aircraft's altitude.

Question 5

What does the 'E6B flight computer' help pilots calculate?

Accepted Answer

Wind correction angle, groundspeed, fuel consumption, true airspeed, and density altitude

Answer

The E6B flight computer (circular slide rule) allows pilots to calculate wind correction angles, groundspeed, true airspeed, time/distance/fuel, and density altitude.

SIFT Exam Practice Test

SIFT Exam Practice Test

SIFT Aviation Knowledge 3