FAA Ground School Practice Test

Under what condition must each occupant of an aircraft wear an approved parachute?

1. When the aircraft is taking off

2. When flying above 10,000 feet

3. When initially pitching the nose of the aircraft up or down 30 degrees or more

4. During nighttime operations

The correct answer is: When initially pitching the nose of the aircraft up or down 30 degrees or more

Each occupant of an aircraft must wear an approved parachute when initially pitching the nose of the aircraft up or down 30 degrees or more during flight maneuvers, such as aerobatics or other intentional abrupt changes in flight attitude. This requirement is in place because such maneuvers can increase the risk of an impending loss of control or the potential for a situation where the aircraft may enter an unusual attitude or stall. Wearing a parachute provides an additional safety measure, allowing occupants an escape option in case an emergency situation arises during these critical phases of flight. In contrast to this requirement, taking off, flying above 10,000 feet, or nighttime operations do not inherently necessitate the use of parachutes for all occupants in typical flight operations outside of aerobatics or specific training requirements. While there are specific regulations regarding parachute use in general aviation, the need for each occupant to wear a parachute under the specified attitude changes is focused on mitigating risks associated with particular flight dynamics and maneuvers.