Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

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Prepare to excel in your Certified Flight Instructor exam with engaging flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Master the knowledge you need for success and achieve your certification with confidence!

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When diverting to an alternate airport because of an emergency, pilots should?

  1. Rely upon radio as the primary method of navigation.

  2. Complete all plotting, measuring, and computations involved before diverting.

  3. Apply rule-of-thumb computations, estimates, and other appropriate shortcuts to divert to the new course as soon as possible.

  4. Maintain altitude and heading until reaching the alternate airport.

The correct answer is: Apply rule-of-thumb computations, estimates, and other appropriate shortcuts to divert to the new course as soon as possible.

When faced with an emergency that requires diverting to an alternate airport, applying rule-of-thumb computations, estimates, and other appropriate shortcuts to quickly establish a new course is crucial. Using these techniques allows pilots to make timely decisions and adjustments, which is vital during emergencies when every second counts. Precise calculations for navigation can be time-consuming, and in a critical situation, it is often better to use simplified methods that will still guide the aircraft to safety. Choosing to utilize quick estimations and familiar techniques helps pilots prioritize safety and efficient navigation. This approach acknowledges the urgency that often accompanies emergencies, facilitating a quicker response while still maintaining control over the aircraft's path. While it's important to have a general understanding of navigation fundamentals, in moments of heightened stress, leveraging efficiency without compromising safety becomes essential. Relying solely on radio navigation might not always be the most reliable option during an emergency, as communication issues may arise. Completing all plotting and measurements beforehand can also delay action and detract from effectively managing the situation at hand. Finally, maintaining altitude and heading until reaching the alternate airport is generally not practical; flexibility is needed in emergencies to adapt quickly to changing circumstances.