GST Techical oral examples
Candidates for the oral type exam (i.e. Aeroplane Technical Part 2) are required to demonstrate a satisfactory level of knowledge of the specific microlight aircraft on which the NPPL (M) General Skill Test is taken.
The Aircraft Manual, Permit to Fly, Aircraft and Engine logbook as well as the Aircraft itself should be available during the exam.
The duration of the test is not likely to be less than 30 minutes.
The Q and A examples are specifically for weightshift flexwing aircraft.
If you have dismantled the aircraft for road transport, what must the examiner be satisfied with regarding your knowledge of the re-assembly?
The examiner must ensure you have sufficient knowledge to competently rig and de-rig the aircraft to a "road transportable" state and understand the correct handling and stowage of component parts.
In relation to the space and surface used for rigging, what environmental factor must you consider to ensure the safety of the aircraft and helpers?
You must position the aircraft in relation to an appropriate space, surface, and specifically the wind direction to prevent the wing from lifting or being damaged during assembly.
How should you record any permitted servicing or repairs you perform on the engine?
You must maintain records of all permitted servicing and repairs in the engine logbook, ensuring the entries are accurate and signed.
As the pilot of a microlight, what are your responsibilities regarding the maintenance of the aircraft's airworthiness documents?
The Pilot in Command (PIC) is responsible for ensuring the aircraft is safe for flight before each flight, which includes verifying the maintenance status.
As the owner of a microlight, what are your responsibilities regarding the maintenance of the aircraft's airworthiness documents?
The owner is fundamentally responsible for ensuring the aircraft is maintained in an airworthy condition, adhering to the approved maintenance programme, and keeping all records up to date.
What is the Maximum Take-Off Weight (MTOW) for the Pegasus Quik, and why is the "Minimum Cockpit Loading" figure equally important?
The MTOW is 409kg (standard) or 450kg (GT450)
What is "VNE"?
"VNE" is the "Never Exceed Speed" As you approach this speed, control bar pressure increases significantly, and the examiner will expect you to know that exceeding it risks structural failure.
What is the stall speed of a 600Kg Microlight
The aircraft within this new range will have a stall speed not exceeding 45 knots. (BMAA)
SSDR Microlights: Maximum stall speed is 35 knots
What are the maximum bank angle and pitch limits for this aircraft in relation to the horizon?
A flexwing is generally limited to 60° of roll and 30° of pitch (nose up or down)
Under what specific flight conditions is a microlight certified to operate?
It is certified for Day VFR (Visual Flight Rules) only
If you are flying solo and your weight is below the "Minimum Cockpit Loading," what is the approved method for correcting this?
You must use approved ballast, which is typically secured in the passenger seat or a designated ballast bag, to bring the total cockpit weight above the minimum required limit
How does the weight-shift (billow-shift) mechanism on the Quik wing assist you when making a turn?
When you move the bar, the billow-shift mechanism allows the wing's fabric to shift across the airframe, increasing the "washout" on one side and decreasing it on the other
Describe the operation of the nose wheel steering
The nose wheel is steered directly via the foot pedals, and is the primary means of directional control on the ground
How do the brakes on a flexwing aircraft operate, and how do you check for "unacceptable" defects?
There can be hydraulic or drum brakes on a flexwing. defects can include leaking hydraulics, worn out disks and/or pads and frayed cables excessive play.
What is the system voltage of your Quik, and how is the battery recharged during flight?
The system is 12 Volts
If your Voltmeter shows a reading below 12V while the engine is running, what does this indicate, and where would you check for the cause?
This indicates the battery is not charging
Which instruments are operated by the pitot/static system, and where are the static vents located?
The Airspeed Indicator (ASI), Altimeter, and Vertical Speed Indicator (VSI) use this system
Is the Rotax 912 UL a 2-stroke or 4-stroke engine, and what type of reduction drive does it use?
It is a 4-stroke engine
What are the "red line" RPM limits for a Rotax 912 engine, and what are the consequences of an overspeed?
Answer: The maximum normal operating limit is 5800 RPM (for 5 minutes) and 5500 RPM continuous. An overspeed can cause internal engine damage and must be recorded in the engine logbook for inspection
Explain the significance of the "Maximum Drop" and the "Difference between magnetos" during your pre-flight ignition check.
A "drop" in RPM shows the engine is running on only one ignition circuit
How does the aircraft's attitude (e.g., nose-up in a steep climb) affect your fuel quantity readings?
Because the fuel sensor is in a fixed position in the tank, a steep nose-up or nose-down attitude can cause the fuel to move away from the sensor, resulting in a false high or low reading.
What kind of fuel is used in a flexwing microlight?
Flexwing microlights can use MOGAS or AVGAS. The operational manual should be consulted in regard to Octane levels (E5 or E10) and if required, 2 stroke oil type and mixture levels.
