Aviation Standard Test Battery-E (ASTB E) Practice Test

Which of the following contributes to maintaining a stable flight?

1. Exceeding maximum altitude

2. Maintaining speed and angle of attack within limits

3. Reducing weight mid-flight

4. Increasing angle of attack only

The correct answer is: Maintaining speed and angle of attack within limits

Maintaining speed and angle of attack within limits is essential for stable flight because these two factors are critical in ensuring that the aircraft remains within its aerodynamic performance envelope. When an aircraft operates within the appropriate speed and angle of attack, it ensures that the wings generate enough lift to counteract the weight of the aircraft. If the speed is too low or the angle of attack exceeds the critical limit, the aircraft risks stalling, leading to a loss of control and stability. When speed is too high, it can also lead to issues such as overspeed conditions which can be detrimental to the aircraft's structural integrity. Therefore, managing both speed and angle of attack effectively allows pilots to maintain control during various phases of flight, ensuring stability and safety. Other options either represent actions that can negatively affect flight stability or are not applicable. For instance, exceeding the maximum altitude can lead to a decrease in engine performance or even engine failure, which is detrimental to flight stability. Reducing weight mid-flight could provide some benefits in terms of performance, but it is not a primary means of maintaining stability and can be impractical to execute during a flight. Increasing the angle of attack alone without regard to speed can lead to a stall, which inherently compromises the stability of the flight