Aircraft General Knowledge
Aircraft systems, structures, engines, and flight instruments.
Overview
Aircraft General Knowledge covers the major systems and components of an aircraft. Pilots must understand how engines work, how electrical and hydraulic systems function, how flight instruments operate, and how to recognize and respond to system failures. This knowledge is critical for safe operation and troubleshooting.
Key Topics
1. Piston Engines
Four-stroke cycle (intake, compression, power, exhaust), carburetor vs. fuel injection, ignition systems (dual magnetos), oil systems, cooling systems, and propeller operation. Understanding engine limitations like CHT and oil temperature/pressure ranges.
2. Flight Instruments
Pitot-static instruments (airspeed indicator, altimeter, vertical speed indicator) and gyroscopic instruments (attitude indicator, heading indicator, turn coordinator). Understanding instrument errors and the vacuum/pressure system.
3. Electrical Systems
Aircraft electrical system components: alternator/generator, battery, bus bar, circuit breakers, and avionics. Understanding load shedding procedures and electrical failure protocols.
4. Fuel Systems
Fuel grades (100LL is blue), fuel system components (tanks, selector, strainer, pump), fuel management procedures, contamination checking (water, debris), and calculating fuel requirements for flight planning.
5. Landing Gear and Brakes
Fixed vs. retractable gear, brake systems (hydraulic disc brakes), tire care and inspection, shimmy dampers, and emergency extension procedures for retractable gear aircraft.
6. Propeller Systems
Fixed-pitch vs. constant-speed propellers, blade angle concepts, propeller governor operation, and the relationship between RPM, manifold pressure, and power output.
Key Terms & Definitions
Exam Tips
- Tip 1:Know which instruments are pitot-static vs. gyroscopic and their power sources
- Tip 2:Understand the effects of carburetor icing and when to apply carburetor heat
- Tip 3:Learn the color coding for fuel grades (100LL = blue, Jet A = clear/straw)
- Tip 4:Know the standard instrument scan pattern and what each instrument indicates
- Tip 5:Understand how the altimeter works and the effects of temperature/pressure variations on altitude readings
Recommended References
Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge Ch. 7-8
FAA handbook covering aircraft systems and flight instruments
Aircraft Systems for Pilots
Comprehensive guide to understanding aircraft powerplant and systems
EASA Aircraft General Knowledge
European study material for AGK examination
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