Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

What defines the angle between the chord line of the wing and the longitudinal axis of the aircraft?

1. Dihedral

2. Angle of attack

3. Angle of incidence

The correct answer is: Angle of incidence

The angle between the chord line of the wing and the longitudinal axis of the aircraft is defined as the angle of incidence. This angle is a critical factor in determining the aerodynamic characteristics of an aircraft. It is set during the design and construction of the aircraft and typically remains fixed for a given aircraft configuration. The angle of incidence affects the lift produced by the wing at a given angle of attack. When the angle of incidence is understood, it helps pilots recognize how the wing will behave at various speeds and load conditions. For instance, a higher angle of incidence can allow for more lift at lower airspeeds but might also increase drag. In contrast to angle of incidence, the angle of attack is the angle between the chord line of the wing and the relative wind, which varies depending on the aircraft's attitude and flight condition. Dihedral refers to the upward angle of the wings from horizontal, affecting the aircraft's lateral stability, but it does not define the relationship between the wing's chord line and the aircraft's longitudinal axis. Understanding the angle of incidence is essential for instructors and students alike, as it plays a pivotal role in aircraft design and performance during flight.