AFOQT Practice Test

Why do planes need to lift at slower speeds?

1. To maintain stability during flight

2. To facilitate landing and takeoff

3. To increase engine efficiency

4. To reduce overall fuel consumption

The correct answer is: To facilitate landing and takeoff

The need for planes to lift at slower speeds is primarily linked to the critical phases of flight, specifically landing and takeoff. During these phases, the aircraft must generate enough lift to safely become airborne or to touch down gently on a runway, respectively. Slower speeds at the point of lift off ensure that the wings can generate sufficient aerodynamic lift, whereas taking off and landing at excessive speeds would pose risks and require longer distances for both takeoff and landing, complicating operations at airports. While maintaining stability during flight is important, achieving stable flight is more closely related to speed management and control than to a specific speed for lift. Similarly, engine efficiency and fuel consumption primarily concern aircraft design and flight planning, rather than the immediate requirements for establishing lift at slower speeds.