Provided by FlightSafety International

Which of the following is true regarding the operation of aircraft flight controls at or below maneuvering speed (V_A)?

 

A. They can be operated simultaneously to their maximum deflection without overstressing the aircraft.

B. They can be operated in one axis at a time to their maximum deflection without overstressing the aircraft.

C. Maximum nose-up elevator input below maneuvering speed will result in aerodynamic stall before the aircraft is overstressed.

D. Both B and C are correct.

 

Correct Answer: D

If full nose-up elevator is used below maneuvering speed (V_A), aerodynamic stall will occur before the aircraft is overstressed. Maneuvering speed with fully deflected flight controls is typically tested or calculated during the aircraft certification process in only one axis at a time. Therefore, great care should be exercised if operating flight controls to their maximum limits in more than one axis at a time, such as during an in-flight upset recovery.