FAA Ground School Practice Test

What is one purpose of wing flaps?

1. To increase the cruise speed of the aircraft

2. To enable the pilot to make steeper approaches to a landing without increasing the airspeed

3. To reduce drag during cruising altitude

4. To assist in takeoff from short runways

The correct answer is: To enable the pilot to make steeper approaches to a landing without increasing the airspeed

The primary purpose of wing flaps is to increase the lift generated by the wings at lower speeds, which allows for steeper approaches during landing without the need to increase airspeed. By extending the flaps, pilots can manipulate the wing's aerodynamic properties, thereby increasing lift and allowing the aircraft to maintain controlled flight at slower speeds. This is particularly important during the landing phase when the aircraft is descending toward the runway and needs to avoid the risk of stalling. The additional lift provided by the flaps also enables aircraft to achieve a more favorable angle of descent, which is especially useful in crowded or challenging airport environments where steeper approaches are required. Overall, wing flaps enhance the aircraft's performance during critical phases of flight like landing.