Aircraft Test Flight Challenges

In Florida, Cory's team, including Captain Pete Zacho, prepares for a challenging mission to fly an old Piper Cheyenne from Florida to the Philippines. The plane, which hasn't been flown for months, requires a test flight to identify any issues. During the test, they encounter significant trim problems, which could jeopardize flight safety. Despite initial challenges, the team decides to ground the plane until the issues are resolved, emphasizing the importance of safety in aviation.

What is the main challenge faced by the pilots in the mission?

• Flying a brand new aircraft

• Navigating through a well-known route

• Flying an old and unreliable aircraft

• Completing a short-distance flight

What is Captain Pete Zacho's profession?

• Commercial airline pilot

• Test pilot

• Flight instructor

• Aircraft engineer

How do the pilots describe the avionics of the aircraft?

• State-of-the-art

• Recently upgraded

• Completely functional

• Outdated and partially non-functional

What is the final destination of the flight?

• Hawaii

• Philippines

• Russia

• Alaska

Why is a test flight deemed necessary before the mission?

• To enjoy a scenic view

• To practice emergency landings

• To ensure the aircraft is airworthy

• To test new flight routes

What issue did the pilots encounter during the test flight?

• Fuel leakage

• Trim malfunction

• Communication breakdown

• Engine failure

What is the function of the trim controls in an aircraft?

• To assist in climbing and descending

• To control the speed

• To navigate the aircraft

• To manage fuel consumption

What could happen if the trim fails during flight?

• The aircraft could become uncontrollable

• The aircraft could lose altitude

• The aircraft could stop mid-air

• The aircraft could speed up

What decision is made after the test flight?

• To ground the aircraft

• To change the flight route

• To upgrade the avionics

• To proceed with the mission

What is the main reason for grounding the aircraft?

• Trim problem

• Pilot unavailability

• Weather conditions

• Engine issues