Private Pilot Private Exam

Which statement is true concerning primary flight controls?

1. The effectiveness of each control surface decreases with speed

2. They are used only during takeoff

3. Primary flight controls include ailerons, rudder, elevator, and trim systems

4. The effectiveness of each control surface increases with speed because there is more flow over them

The correct answer is: The effectiveness of each control surface increases with speed because there is more flow over them

The correct statement is that the effectiveness of each control surface increases with speed because there is more flow over them. As an aircraft gains speed, the airflow over the wings and control surfaces increases, which enhances their aerodynamic effectiveness. Ailerons, rudder, and elevators respond more responsively at higher speeds due to the increased dynamic pressure on these surfaces, allowing for more effective maneuvering and control. The other statements do not capture the fundamental characteristics of primary flight controls. For instance, stating that primary flight controls are only used during takeoff does not acknowledge their continuous importance throughout all phases of flight, including level flight, climbing, and descending. Similarly, mentioning that control surface effectiveness decreases with speed contradicts the aerodynamic principles regarding airflow, while the inclusion of trim systems in the list of primary controls is misleading because trim systems are typically considered secondary controls that assist in maintaining a desired attitude with less pilot input rather than primary means of control.