Ask a CFI

A constant-speed propeller is a controllable-pitch propeller whose pitch is automatically varied in flight to maintain a constant speed (RPM) despite varying air loads. Engine RPM is controlled and changed by changing the pitch, or the blade angle, taken by the propeller. This is regulated by the propeller governor which changes the pitch to maintain the RPM that you have selected.

The pilot and passenger seat belt and shoulder harness requirements are referenced in FAR 91.107 and FAR 91.105. During takeoff and landing, crew members must wear both seat belts and shoulder harnesses (if equipped), unless the shoulder harness would interfere with their duties. In-flight, crew members must keep their seat belts fastened while at their station (pilot seat). The use of a shoulder harnesses in flight is not required, but it is encouraged when feasible.

The regulations (14 CFR 91.211) only require that that the flight crew use supplemental oxygen after 30 minutes at cabin pressure altitudes between 12,500 and 14,000 feet and at all times for cabin pressure altitudes above 14,000 feet. Pilots and passengers must be provided with supplemental oxygen at cabin pressure altitudes above 15,000 feet.

All models of aviation-oriented calculators may be used, including small electronic calculators that perform only arithmetic functions (add, subtract, multiply, and divide). Simple programmable memories (which allow addition to, subtraction from, or retrieval of one number from the memory) are permissible. Also, simple functions, such as square root and percent keys, are permissible. Applicants may use scales, straightedges, protractors, plotters, navigation computers, blank logsheets, holding pattern entry aids, and electronic or mechanical calculators that are directly related to the test.

In aviation, a slipping turn and a skidding turn are both uncoordinated flight conditions that should be avoided. They occur when an aircraft's rate of turn does not match its bank angle. In a correctly executed turn, the horizontal component of lift should be equal and opposite to the centrifugal force.

During preflight planning, it is imperative to check the Notices to Air Missions (NOTAMs) as these notices are considered essential to flight safety and contain information not known sufficiently in advance to publicize by other means. NOTAMs, as well as other current information pertinent to a flight, are available from a variety of sources, including the FAA NOTAM website, Flight Service and in mobile flight planning apps.

Your instructor is trying to convey the importance of flying the airplane in a coordinated conditioned as indicated on the inclinometer (ball). During takeoff, and in other phases of flight, an airplane tends to yaw to the left due to several aerodynamic factors. Pilots counter these forces, known as "left-turning tendencies," by applying right rudder hence your instructor saying, “more right rudder.”

Airspace is divided into Controlled, Uncontrolled, Special Use and Other. Airspace designation is determined by considering the density of aircraft, the types of operations, the level of safety required, and the national and public interest. Controlled airspace is generally where ATC service is provided. There are different requirements if the flight is operated under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) or Visual Flight Rules (VFR). For example, a pilot flying IFR in controlled airspace will have to file an IFR flight plan and receive an ATC clearance. For VFR flight, controlled airspace means increased cloud clearance and visibility requirements.  For the VFR pilot flying in B, C, and D airspace, there are communication and/or clearance requirements.

Mnemonic acronyms are wonderful mechanisms for condensing complex terms, phrases or lists into something more manageable to commit to memory.  Aviation has its fair share of clever—and sometimes silly—recall devices, which stands to reason when there is critically important information that should be committed to memory.

Speaking of clever and silly, "ATOMATOFLAMES" is a mnemonic acronym used to help pilots remember the critical components required for aircraft airworthiness for daytime flight in visual (VFR) conditions. Each letter in ATOMATOFLAMES corresponds to a specific item that must be operational before takeoff.  This equipment list can be found in § 91.205.