Chapter 1: Introduction

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge?

Answer 1

Provides foundational knowledge for student pilots and those seeking advanced pilot certification.

Question 2

Who is considered the ‘Father of Aerial Navigation’?

Answer 2

Sir George Cayley, who discovered principles foundational to modern aeronautics.

Question 3

When and where did the Wright brothers make their first flight?

Answer 3

December 17, 1903, at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina.

Question 4

What was the Air Commerce Act of 1926?

Answer 4

Legislation that established safety regulations for aviation, including pilot licensing and air traffic rules.

Question 5

What is the role of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)?

Answer 5

Promotes aviation safety, regulates air traffic, and sets standards for civil aviation.

Question 6

What is a NOTAM?

Answer 6

Notice to Airmen, a time-critical aeronautical information update for pilots.

Question 7

What is the purpose of the Aeronautical Information Manual (AIM)?

Answer 7

Provides basic flight information and ATC procedures for pilots in the National Airspace System (NAS).

Question 8

What are the three classes of pilot certificates?

Answer 8

1. Student Pilot Certificate
2. Recreational Pilot Certificate
3. Private Pilot Certificate

Question 9

What is the FAASTeam?

Answer 9

FAA Safety Team, focused on reducing aircraft accidents through coordinated safety efforts.

Question 10

What is the significance of the Airline Deregulation Act of 1978?

Answer 10

Removed federal control over fares, routes, and market entry of airlines, promoting free competition.

Question 11

What is pilotage in navigation?

Answer 11

Navigating by reference to visible landmarks.

Question 12

What are the requirements for a Student Pilot Certificate?

Answer 12

Be at least 16 years old, read/write/speak English, and be medically fit or hold a driver’s license.

Question 13

What is the minimum flight experience required for a Private Pilot Certificate?

Answer 13

40 hours, including 20 hours of instruction and 10 hours of solo flight.

Question 14

What is the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 14?

Answer 14

Regulations covering all aspects of civil aviation in the United States.

Question 15

What are the categories of aircraft according to 14 CFR?

Answer 15

Airplane, Rotorcraft, Glider, Lighter-than-air, Powered-lift, Weight-shift control, Rocket, Powered parachute.

Question 16

What is the difference between Class and Category in aircraft certification?

Answer 16

Category refers to broad classifications (e.g., airplane, rotorcraft); Class refers to specifics (e.g., single-engine land).

Question 17

What is the role of a Certificated Flight Instructor (CFI)?

Answer 17

Responsible for training student pilots, ensuring they meet certification standards.

Question 18

What is the purpose of Advisory Circulars (ACs)?

Answer 18

Provide guidance and acceptable methods for complying with FAA regulations.

Question 19

What are the functions of the Flight Standards District Office (FSDO)?

Answer 19

Oversee certification, enforcement, and safety standards for airmen and air operators.

Question 20

What is the function of the FAA’s Aeronautical Center?

Answer 20

Provides aviation safety-related training, research, and logistical services.