Certified Flight Instructor - Flight Instructor Airplane Practice Exam

Which component typically provides the most significant increase in lift during low-speed flight?

1. Leading edge flaps.

2. Ailerons.

3. Trailing edge flaps.

4. Slats.

The correct answer is: Trailing edge flaps.

In low-speed flight, the component that typically provides the most significant increase in lift is trailing edge flaps. Trailing edge flaps increase the wing's camber and effective surface area, allowing the wing to generate more lift at lower speeds. This is particularly important during phases of flight such as takeoff and landing, where maintaining lift at slower airspeeds is crucial for safe aircraft operation. By extending the trailing edge flaps, a pilot can lower the stall speed of the aircraft, enabling it to fly safely at slower speeds without stalling. This is vital for achieving the required performance during these critical phases of flight. While other components like leading edge flaps and slats also enhance lift, trailing edge flaps are generally more effective due to their larger surface area and ability to significantly modify the lift characteristics of the wing. Ailerons primarily control roll and do not contribute to lift enhancement in the same manner as the other components.