FAA Ground School Practice Test

What is the right-of-way rule for an aircraft towing other aircraft?

1. It has the right-of-way over all engine-driven aircraft

2. It must yield to gliders

3. It has equal rights with commercial jets

4. It must yield to helicopters

The correct answer is: It has the right-of-way over all engine-driven aircraft

An aircraft towing other aircraft is granted the right-of-way over all engine-driven aircraft. This rule is in place to ensure safety during operations involving towed aircraft, as the towing aircraft has limited maneuverability and is carrying the responsibility for the towed aircraft. The towing aircraft may need to maintain a specific flight path and speed, and other engine-driven aircraft should avoid interfering with this operation to prevent accidents. The right-of-way rule prioritizes the safety and operational needs of the towing aircraft, which can have a significantly larger impact on safety if it were to be forced to alter its course due to the actions of an engine-driven aircraft. This rule reflects the understanding that towing involves unique challenges, and yielding to the towing aircraft helps to maintain safe airspace separation during flight operations. While gliders, commercial jets, and helicopters have their own right-of-way considerations, the towing aircraft's specific situation necessitates its precedence over engine-driven aircraft.