Quiz on Flight Stability and Dynamics

What is the primary characteristic of stability in an aircraft?

• The ability to fly at high speeds

• The capability to carry heavy loads

• The tendency to return to a straight-and-level flightpath

• The ability to perform complex maneuvers

Which type of stability refers to the initial tendency of an aircraft to return to equilibrium after being disturbed?

• Static stability

• Dynamic stability

• Directional stability

• Lateral stability

What does dynamic stability refer to?

• The initial response of the aircraft to control inputs

• The aircraft's response over time when disturbed

• The ability to maintain altitude

• The aircraft's speed during flight

Which of the following is a characteristic of positive static stability?

• The aircraft continues away from equilibrium

• The aircraft remains in a new condition after disturbance

• The aircraft returns to its original state after disturbance

• The aircraft oscillates indefinitely

What is the phugoid mode in terms of longitudinal oscillations?

• A rapid pitching motion

• A large-amplitude variation of airspeed and altitude

• A constant speed flight

• A type of spin

Which factor does NOT affect static longitudinal stability?

• Location of the wing with respect to the CG

• Area of the tail surfaces

• Weight of the aircraft

• Location of the horizontal tail surfaces

What is the primary contributor to directional stability in an aircraft?

• The area of the horizontal stabilizer

• The engine thrust line

• The vertical fin and fuselage area aft of the CG

• The wing design

What does adverse yaw refer to?

• The tendency of the aircraft to roll in the opposite direction of a turn

• The response of the aircraft to control inputs

• The ability to maintain a straight flight path

• The stability of the aircraft during turbulence

Which of the following describes spiral instability?

• An aircraft that can perform sharp turns

• An aircraft that is directionally stable but laterally unstable

• An aircraft that is stable in all flight conditions

• An aircraft that has a high angle of attack

What is the effect of dihedral on lateral stability?

• It stabilizes the rolling effect during a gust

• It has no effect on stability

• It decreases the aircraft's lift

• It increases drag during flight