Principal of flight Flashcards

1
Q

What are responsibilities does a pilot have

A

Flight plan
pre-flight Inspection
Piloting the aircraft
Monitoring systems
Communicate
Navigate
Weather assessment
Passenger’s safety
Health fitness

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2
Q

How does gps work

A

Satellites orbit Earth and send signals with their location and time.
A GPS receiver picks up signals from multiple satellites.
The receiver calculates the distance to each satellite based on signal travel time.
Using these distances, the receiver triangulates its exact position on Earth.

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3
Q

How much fuel burn

A

Narrow-Body Jets
3000 to 4000 liters per hour.

Wide-Body Jets
6000 to 12000 liters per hour.

Large Long-Haul Jets
12000 to 14000 liters per hour.

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4
Q

Fuel Reserve

A

Contingency
Alternate
Reserve

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5
Q

Most dangerous clouds to fly though

A

Cumulonimbus (kyoo·myuh·low·nim·buhs)
Volcanic clouds

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6
Q

What are the primary flight controls of an aircraft?

A

ailerons (roll), elevator (pitch), rudder (yaw).

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7
Q

How do the ailerons of an aircraft work?

A

Ailerons on wings move oppositely to roll the aircraft, altering lift on each wing.

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8
Q

Describe in detail how an aircraft: Turns / Bank, Climb / Descend

A

Turn/Bank: Adjust ailerons to tilt wings, use rudder to balance.
Climb/Descend: Adjust elevators to change pitch; raise nose to climb, lower nose to descend.

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9
Q

Explain what is fly-by-wire.

A

Fly-by-wire replaces manual controls with electronic interface.

Pilot’s inputs are converted to signals, computers move actuators on control surfaces.

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10
Q

Name the common instruments found in the cockpit.

A

Altimeter, Airspeed Indicator, Attitude Indicator, Heading Indicator, Vertical Speed Indicator, and various engine monitoring instruments.

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11
Q

What is a high-bypass engine?

A

A high-bypass engine is a type of turbofan where a large proportion of the air bypasses the core to the fan. This design is more fuel-efficient and quieter than low-bypass turbofans, making it ideal for commercial airliners.

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12
Q

Illustrate and describe how a turbofan engine works.

A

A turbofan engine works by using a large fan to draw in air, compressing a portion of it for combustion to drive the turbine and fan, and expelling both the bypass air and exhaust gases to generate thrust efficiently.

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13
Q

What are the differences between jet engines and propeller engines?

A

Jet engines: Efficient at high speeds/altitudes, provide thrust via jet propulsion.

Propeller engines (turboprops): Efficient at lower speeds/altitudes, provide thrust via propeller.

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14
Q

During cruise at cruising altitude for a commercial aircraft, give the:

A

Approximate altitude: Typically between 30,000 to 40,000 feet.

Cabin altitude: Usually maintained around 6,000 to 8,000 feet.

Atmospheric temperature outside the aircraft: Around -40 to -60 degrees Celsius.

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15
Q

What are the two devices used to maneuver the plane on the ground?

A

Tug vehicles for pushing or towing and the aircraft’s own taxiing using the nose wheel steering.

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16
Q

What are V-speeds? Describe the common V-speeds:

A

V1: Decision speed to continue takeoff after a failure.

VR (V-rotate): Speed to begin rotation for lift-off.

V2: Minimum takeoff safety speed.

V1: 130-140
VR:140-155
V2: 140-160

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17
Q

Why do pilots take their hand off the thrust lever / throttle at V1?

A

At V1, the decision to continue the takeoff is irreversible due to insufficient runway length to stop safely. Removing hands from throttles prevents a reflex action to abort the takeoff after it’s no longer safe to do so.

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18
Q

State the typical take-off, cruising, and landing speeds of a commercial aircraft.

A

Take-off: Around 150-180 knots.

Cruising: Approximately 450-500 knots.

Landing: About 130-150 knots.

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19
Q

What is Mach 1? How fast is Mach 1 in km/hr or kts?

A

Mach 1 is the speed of sound, approximately 1,225 km/h or 661 knots at sea level.

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20
Q

What is the purpose of wingtip devices?

A

Wingtip devices reduce wingtip vortices and associated induced drag by improving the wing’s aerodynamic efficiency, leading to better fuel efficiency.

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21
Q

What are flaps and how do they work?

A

Flaps are hinged surfaces on the wing trailing edge that extend downward to increase the wing area and camber. This modification enhances lift and reduces stall speed, crucial during takeoff and landing phases.

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22
Q

Describe the pitot-static system found in commercial aircrafts.

A

The pitot-static system includes a pitot tube that measures airspeed and static ports that measure the ambient air pressure. These measurements are vital for the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator.

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23
Q

What are the various crosswind techniques in landing an aircraft?

A

Common techniques include the crab method (aligning the nose with the wind and realigning before touchdown) and the sideslip method (lowering the windward wing and using opposite rudder to maintain direction).

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24
Q

What are the main differences between an Airbus and Boeing aircraft?

A

Airbus typically uses a side-stick

Boeing uses a traditional yoke

Airbus founded in france, Toulouse

Boeing united states, Seattle

Airbus aims to reduce pilot workload through automation, whereas Boeing designs systems that support but do not override pilot decisions.

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25
Q

What are two differences between the cockpit of an Airbus and Boeing aircraft?

A

Airbus cockpits feature electronic side-sticks and a minimalist approach to physical switches, relying more on screen-based interfaces. Boeing cockpits use a central yoke and have more manual switches and controls.

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26
Q

Why are the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787 more efficient than older aircrafts?

A

Both use advanced composite materials for lighter airframes and more efficient engines

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27
Q

What are the main differences between the Airbus A350 and Boeing 787?

A

A350 uses XWB 9.6
787 uses Trent 1000 10

A350 uses bleed air from engine
787 uses Eletronic driven system

A350 15,000
787 11,000

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28
Q

Why does the Boeing 777X have foldable wingtips?

A

To allow for a wider wingspan for improved aerodynamic efficiency while still being compatible with existing airplane design group for airports

29
Q

What are bleedless engines and how do they work? Were there any issues with this?

A

Bleedless engines, used in the Boeing 787, do not divert hot air from the engines for cabin pressurization or anti-ice systems, using electric systems instead. This innovation leads to greater efficiency but initially faced challenges, including reliability issues and system integration complexities.

30
Q

Which aircrafts have serrated engine nacelles/engine chevrons? Why are they designed this way?

A

The Boeing 787, 747-8,737 max.

These chevrons reduce noise by controlling the mixing rate of the high-speed exhaust and surrounding air, improving environmental and community compatibility.

31
Q

How much fuel is used from Singapore london?

A

Singapore to London might use approximately 110,000 liters of fuel

32
Q

What is the difference between MAYDAY and PAN PAN?

A

MAYDAY: Used for life-threatening emergencies, such as a serious accident or imminent danger. It indicates that immediate assistance is required.

PAN PAN: Used for urgent situations that are not life-threatening, such as a mechanical failure or a non-critical medical issue. It signals that assistance is needed, but it is not an emergency.

33
Q

What does MAYDAY FUEL or MINIMUM FUEL mean? What are their procedures like?

A

MAYDAY FUEL indicates an emergency due to low fuel requiring immediate landing. MINIMUM FUEL signals that an aircraft has reached its minimum fuel reserve but has not yet entered an emergency state. Procedures involve air traffic control prioritizing the aircraft for landing to ensure safety.

34
Q

What are the effects of decompression? What should you do when faced with it?

A

Rapid cabin decompression can lead to hypoxia. Crew should don oxygen masks immediately and initiate an emergency descent to below 10,000 feet

35
Q

What should you do when an aircraft engine is on fire? Should the engine still be on fire after attempting to extinguish it, what should you do next?

A

Activate the engine fire extinguisher and, if the fire does not extinguish, prepare for an emergency landing. If possible, shut down the affected engine to prevent further damage.

36
Q

Where are fire extinguishers typically located in an aircraft?

A

In the cockpit, galleys, and strategically throughout the cabin to ensure quick accessibility.

37
Q

Describe how waypoints are determined and obtained.

A

Waypoints are predefined geographical locations used for route planning and navigation, typically obtained through global navigation satellite systems and aeronautical charts.

38
Q

How do pilots know the location of their aircraft?

A

Through instruments like GPS for precise positioning and traditional navigation methods using VORs (VHF Omnidirectional Range) and NDBs (Non-Directional Beacons) when necessary.

39
Q

Should an aircraft lose its GPS capabilities, how do pilots then fly the aircraft?

A

Pilots revert to traditional navigation methods using radio navigation aids and dead reckoning, supported by instruments such as the Inertial Navigation System (INS).

Air data Inertial Reference System, measures all the movement traveled to give an exact location when gps is down

40
Q

Explain what is a stall and how it occurs.

A

A stall occurs when the wing exceeds its critical angle of attack, causing a rapid decrease in lift and potential loss of aircraft control. It is typically due to slow airspeed or excessive pitch attitude.

41
Q

Give an example of a Standard Instrument Departure (SID) / Standard Terminal Arrival (STAR) of Singapore Changi.

A

Sid vesbo
Star topom

42
Q

Explain the purpose of a transponder and squawking ident.

A

A transponder communicates with ground radar systems, transmitting the aircraft’s identity and altitude. Squawking ident is used to highlight the aircraft’s position on air traffic control radar during an emergency or as directed by ATC.

Mode s transponder can transmit altitude, airspeed, verticle air speed, heading and exact location

43
Q

What is turbulence? What creates it? How do we avoid or minimize it?

A

Turbulence is irregular atmospheric motion with rapid wind changes,

caused by weather systems,

jet streams, or

obstacles like mountains.

Pilots avoid it by altering course or altitude using weather reports and real-time updates.

44
Q

What are the factors behind some landings being smooth, while others being more rough?

A

Factors include

pilot skill,

wind conditions,

runway conditions, and

aircraft type.

Pilots adjust their techniques based on these variables to achieve the smoothest landing possible.

45
Q

What are the various types of Air Traffic Controller (ATC) frequencies at airports?

A

Ground Control: Manages aircraft on the ground, including taxiing.

Tower Control: Handles aircraft taking off and landing.

Clearance Delivery: Provides departure clearance and route instructions.

Approach Control: Manages incoming flights
approaching the airport.

Departure Control: Manages aircraft leaving the airport’s airspace.

ATIS (Automatic Terminal Information Service): Broadcasts weather and operational information.

46
Q

What are the roles and responsibilities of a Captain and First Officer?

A

Captain: The aircraft commander is responsible for all flight operations and the safety of the aircraft and passengers. Makes final decisions and manages the flight crew.

First Officer: Assists the captain by monitoring the flight instruments, handling communications, and supporting all phases of flight. Takes over command if necessary.

47
Q

What are the differences between Pilot Flying (PF) and Pilot Monitoring (PM)?

A

Pilot Flying (PF): The pilot directly controlling the aircraft during a flight segment.

Pilot Monitoring (PM): Assists the PF by handling communications, checklists, and monitoring the flight’s progress and systems.

48
Q

Share with me what pilots do before and during every flight.

A

Pre-flight: Check weather conditions, prepare the flight plan, conduct pre-flight inspections, and brief the crew.

During Flight: Manage navigation, communicate with ATC, monitor aircraft systems, and adjust the flight plan as needed.

49
Q

What is the Swiss Cheese Model, and why is it that important in aviation?

A

A risk management model that illustrates how layers of defense (like slices of Swiss cheese) can prevent accidents. Each layer has potential flaws, and when these holes align, a hazard can occur. It emphasizes the importance of multiple safety layers to catch errors.

50
Q

Why are budget airlines performing well in recent times?

A

Budget airlines reduce operational costs and offer lower fares, attracting more price-sensitive passengers. Their business model often includes higher aircraft utilization rates and direct point-to-point services.

51
Q

Name three trends in the aviation industry. How will this affect the industry over time and also SQ?

A

Sustainability Efforts: Increasing use of biofuels and more efficient aircraft to reduce carbon footprints.

Digital Transformation: Enhanced customer service and operational efficiency through AI and data analytics.

Health Safety Innovations: Post-COVID emphasis on health measures, potentially leading to permanent changes in service and safety protocols.

For Singapore Airlines (SQ), adapting these trends will ensure competitiveness and possibly lead to market leadership in these areas.

52
Q

Do you think SQ is adapting well to the current competitive climate? What are some adaptations SQ has adopted towards such challenges?

A

SQ has been proactive, with investments in new aircraft, cabin upgrades, and digital technologies to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency. They’ve also expanded their network and improved their loyalty programs.

53
Q

What is ETOPS and how does it affect flying today?

A

Extended-range Twin-engine Operational Performance Standards (ETOPS) is a regulation allowing twin-engine aircraft to fly routes that, at some points, are more than 60 minutes away from the nearest airport. This has enabled more direct and efficient routes across oceans and remote areas.

54
Q

The number of operating flight crew in an airplane has been decreasing over the past decades. Why is this so?

A

Advances in technology and automation have reduced the need for larger crews. Modern aircraft are equipped with sophisticated systems that automate many tasks previously done manually.

55
Q

What are your thoughts on single-pilot operations? Do you think it is viable?

A

While technology supports the feasibility of single-pilot operations, especially in cargo and small commercial aircraft, significant concerns regarding safety, workload, and public perception remain. Multi-pilot operations provide critical backups in emergencies.

56
Q

What is fuel hedging and why have airlines globally performed fuel hedging?

A

Fuel hedging is a financial strategy airlines use to lock in fuel prices for a future date to protect against potential price rises. This practice helps manage budget predictability and protect against volatile fuel costs.

57
Q

Have you talked to any pilots in the industry about the lifestyle of a pilot? What have you learnt?

A

Discussions with industry pilots have highlighted the challenges of irregular work hours and time away from home but also the unique rewards of flying and the high level of job satisfaction.

58
Q

Have you read of any recent aviation incidents? Elaborate and describe how and why it happened.

A

Voepass 2283, ATR 72, 62 Fatal, deep stall due to ice on wings

59
Q

Tell me of a recent incident involving a Singapore Airlines aircraft.

A

One recent non-critical incident involved a Singapore Airlines plane encountering severe turbulence en route, which resulted in minor injuries and illustrates the unpredictability of air travel despite modern forecasting and navigation technology.

60
Q

Share with me any recent or past news of a Singapore Airlines aircraft experiencing rapid decompression.

A

sq336 2018 sin-cdg rapid decompression no one hurt

61
Q

Has Singapore Airlines experienced any fatal accidents in its history? Share more about the accident.

A

Singapore Airlines has had a commendable safety record. However, in October 2000, SQ Flight 006 collided with construction equipment during takeoff in Taipei due to a pilot error in using the wrong runway. This tragic accident resulted in 83 fatalities and significant injuries.

62
Q

What is Crew Resource Management (CRM)? Share an aircraft accident that was the result of a lack of CRM.

A

CRM involves the effective use of all available resources, including personnel, equipment, and information, to achieve safe and efficient flight operations. A notable accident attributed to poor CRM was the Tenerife Airport Disaster (1977), where a lack of clear communication led to the deadliest aviation accident in history.

63
Q

How will you handle a critical situation in flight with your fellow pilot?

A

Clear communication, adherence to standard operating procedures, and effective use of CRM principles to ensure a coordinated approach to managing the situation.

64
Q

If you are in the marketing team of an airline, how will you convince your customers that it is safe to fly on the Boeing 737 MAX?

A

Focus on transparency, sharing all the steps taken to rectify issues, the rigorous testing undergone, and the regulatory clearances obtained. Highlighting endorsements from aviation experts and pilot testimonials can also restore trust.

65
Q

What will you do if you’re not selected for the job?

A

Seek feedback and understand areas for improvement.

Continue enhancing aviation knowledge and gaining related experience.

Reapply in the future with a stronger, more competitive profile.

66
Q

You do not appear to have done much to get into or pursue your interest in aviation. Why should we offer you this opportunity?

A

Prior Focus on Business: Initially focused on building and managing a successful startup, which developed critical skills transferable to aviation.

Realized Passion: Rediscovered and committed to aviation after learning that my vision meets the requirements.

Proactive Learning: Engaged in extensive self-study and practical research on aviation topics, watching documentaries and learning from industry experts.

Relevant Skills: Developed essential skills in leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making that are crucial for a pilot.

67
Q

Someone truly passionate and interested in aviation would have dabbled with flight simulation games more consistently. Why did you play with them just a couple of times?

A

Purpose-Driven Use: Utilized flight simulators specifically to understand key concepts and improve practical skills, rather than casual gaming.

Focused Learning: Prioritized targeted learning experiences that directly contribute to my understanding of aviation principles.

Broad Engagement: Engaged with a wide range of aviation-related activities, including documentaries, industry literature, and discussions with professionals, ensuring a well-rounded preparation.

Commitment to Growth: Demonstrated continuous growth and learning in aviation through various means, showing a deep and evolving commitment to the field.

68
Q

6 basic flight instruments

A

airspeed indicator, vertical speed indicator, altitude, artificial horizon, turn indicator, heading indicator