AFOQT Practice Test

What occurs during straight and level flight?

1. The nose of the aircraft continuously climbs

2. The wing tips are uneven with the horizon

3. The aircraft maintains a constant altitude and heading

4. The aircraft rolls side to side

The correct answer is: The aircraft maintains a constant altitude and heading

During straight and level flight, the aircraft maintains a constant altitude and heading, which means that it is flying horizontally, neither climbing nor descending, and is not turning. This condition is crucial for stability and control in flight, allowing pilots to ensure that the aircraft is not in a state of transition—such as ascending, descending, or turning. Achieving straight and level flight involves careful balance among the forces acting on the aircraft, including thrust, drag, lift, and weight. When an aircraft is in this state, the lift produced by the wings equals the weight of the aircraft, and the thrust produced by the engines balances the drag. This equilibrium is essential for efficient and safe navigation within the airspace.