FAA Ground School Practice Test

During taxiing operations, which aileron position is recommended when dealing with a quartering tailwind?

1. Right aileron down

2. Left aileron neutral

3. Left aileron up

4. Right aileron up

The correct answer is: Left aileron up

When taxiing with a quartering tailwind, the recommended response is to raise the aileron on the side opposite the direction of the wind. This action counters the effect of the wind on the wings. In this scenario, a quartering tailwind can cause the aircraft to want to weathervane into the wind. By positioning the left aileron up, the pilot effectively creates a downward force on the right wing, which helps to counteract the tendency of the airplane to roll towards the left (into the wind). This adjustment stabilizes the aircraft during taxiing and helps prevent it from being pushed off course by the tailwind. Although each answer choice might imply different ways of managing wind effects, the correct option emphasizes the aerodynamic principles at play during taxi operations, aligning aileron control with wind direction to maintain proper handling characteristics.