AFOQT Practice Test

Where are spoilers located in relation to the aircraft's wing?

1. At the leading edge of the wing

2. Directly forward of the trailing edge flaps

3. At the wingtips for roll control

4. Alongside the ailerons on the wing surface

The correct answer is: Directly forward of the trailing edge flaps

Spoilers are control surfaces typically located on the upper surface of an aircraft's wing, and their primary function is to disrupt the airflow and reduce lift when deployed. They are usually positioned directly behind the leading edge flaps and can sometimes be found in line with or very close to them on the wing surface. This positioning allows for improved control during landing and descent, as deploying spoilers helps lower the aircraft's lift and increase drag, making it easier to descend without gaining excessive speed. While they may be found near the flaps, it's important to understand that the misleading aspect of this question is the phrasing: spoilers are not actually located directly forward of the trailing edge flaps. Instead, they are typically connected to the upper wing surface, right behind the flaps. This correlation assists in better stall management by reducing lift at lower speeds while aiding in roll control, but their primary role is not that of flaps or ailerons. The other options include various terms associated with different control surfaces. Leading edge devices are not spoilers, and wingtips often utilize ailerons or winglets for lateral control rather than spoilers. Thus, the most accurate description of spoiler placement is alongside or in relation to the ailerons but not directly before flaps