1.
When Lufthansa received its third Airbus A380 this year it named the aircraft ‘Peking’. It had previously only once broken its tradition of using German locations, with an A340-300 named what?
Correct Answer
A. Gander & Halifax
Explanation
Lufthansa broke its tradition of using German locations and named an A340-300 after Gander and Halifax. This suggests that Gander and Halifax are not German locations and that Lufthansa has named an aircraft after them before.
2.
Israel’s El Al revealed this year that it was planning a surprise move to create a fourth airline alliance. What does ‘El Al’ mean?
Correct Answer
C. Skywards
Explanation
The correct answer is "Skywards." El Al is planning to create a fourth airline alliance called Skywards.
3.
Russia’s United Aircraft signed several customer agreements this year for its MS-21. But how does MS-21 translate in English?
Correct Answer
D. Mainline Aircraft for the 21st Century
Explanation
The correct answer is "Mainline Aircraft for the 21st Century." This is because the MS-21 is a modern aircraft designed for use as a mainline aircraft in the 21st century. It is not a medium and short-haul airliner, an advanced narrowbody, or simply a modern and efficient type 21 aircraft.
4.
Boeing delivered its 800th aircraft to China. But what type, and for which carrier?
Correct Answer
B. Air China 737-800
Explanation
The correct answer is Air China 737-800. This is the correct answer because it states that the 800th aircraft delivered by Boeing was an Air China 737-800.
5.
Which US carrier introduced a “signature cocktail” called ‘Sunrise Sunset’, based on vodka, cranberry apple, orange juice and lime?
Correct Answer
C. United Airlines
Explanation
United Airlines introduced a "signature cocktail" called 'Sunrise Sunset', which is made with vodka, cranberry apple, orange juice, and lime.
6.
Which one of these types survived the UK’s Strategic Defence and Security Review?
Correct Answer
C. Rivet Joint
Explanation
Rivet Joint is the correct answer because it is the only type mentioned that survived the UK's Strategic Defence and Security Review. The Harrier GR9, Nimrod MRA4, and Sentinel R1/ASTOR did not survive the review.
7.
Singapore signed a deal for a new fleet of advanced jet trainers. What type did it select?
Correct Answer
B. M-346
Explanation
Singapore selected the M-346 as its new fleet of advanced jet trainers.
8.
India is to collaborate on a version of Russia’s PAK-FA fighter, which first flew in 2010. What is the acronym for their proposed joint programme?
Correct Answer
B. FGFA
Explanation
The proposed joint program between India and Russia for a version of Russia's PAK-FA fighter is called FGFA.
9.
What is the name of the UK’s unmanned combat air vehicle technology demonstrator?
Correct Answer
D. Taranis
Explanation
Taranis is the correct answer because it is the name of the UK's unmanned combat air vehicle technology demonstrator. This technology demonstrator was developed by BAE Systems in collaboration with the UK Ministry of Defence. Taranis is designed to explore and demonstrate the capabilities of unmanned combat aircraft, including autonomous flight, stealth, and precision strike capabilities.
10.
US Aerospace made a surprise late bid for the US Air Force’s KC-X tanker contract. What was the name of its final proposed Antonov derivative?
Correct Answer
B. An-112KC
Explanation
US Aerospace's final proposed Antonov derivative for the US Air Force's KC-X tanker contract was the An-112KC.
11.
Which aircraft has Hamacher Schlemmer displayed on its Christmas catalogue?
Correct Answer
D. Terrafugia Transition
Explanation
Hamacher Schlemmer has displayed the Terrafugia Transition on its Christmas catalogue.
12.
Which of these veteran aviation innovators started a new company this year?
Correct Answer
C. Alan Klapmeier
Explanation
Alan Klapmeier is the correct answer because he is a veteran aviation innovator who started a new company this year. The other options, Vern Raburn, Rick Schrameck, and Rick Adam, did not start new companies this year.
13.
Which business aviation start-up went belly-up for the second time?
Correct Answer
D. Emivest Aerospace
Explanation
Emivest Aerospace is the correct answer because it is a business aviation start-up that failed for the second time. The question implies that this start-up has experienced failure before, and Emivest Aerospace fits this description.
14.
An order for which aircraft type marked the redirection and rebirth of NetJets?
Correct Answer
B. Embraer pHenom 300
Explanation
The Embraer Phenom 300 marked the redirection and rebirth of NetJets. This aircraft type played a significant role in the company's transformation and success. It offered improved performance, efficiency, and comfort compared to previous aircraft in NetJets' fleet. The Phenom 300 allowed NetJets to expand its services and attract a broader range of customers. Its introduction symbolized a new era for the company and demonstrated its commitment to providing top-quality private aviation services.
15.
Which business aircraft unofficially captured the high speed crown?
Correct Answer
C. Gulfstream G650
Explanation
The Gulfstream G650 is the correct answer because it unofficially captured the high speed crown in the business aircraft industry. It is known for its impressive speed capabilities, with a top speed of Mach 0.925. This makes it one of the fastest business jets in the world, allowing passengers to reach their destinations more quickly and efficiently. Its high speed performance has earned it a reputation as a top choice for those seeking a fast and luxurious travel experience.
16.
Which high-bypass turbofan engine family became the first in history to achieve 500 million engine flight hours in service?
Correct Answer
C. CFM56
Explanation
The CFM56 engine family became the first in history to achieve 500 million engine flight hours in service.
17.
Which engine was selected to power India’s Tejas MkII light combat aircraft?
Correct Answer
A. GE F414
Explanation
The GE F414 engine was selected to power India's Tejas MkII light combat aircraft.
18.
Which engine was selected to power Bombardier’s new Global 7000 and 8000 long-range business jets?
Correct Answer
D. General Electric TechX
Explanation
The correct answer is General Electric TechX. This engine was chosen to power Bombardier's new Global 7000 and 8000 long-range business jets.
19.
Turkish Airlines took delivery of its first Airbus A330-300 passenger and A330-200F freighter aircraft. Which engine did the carrier select for both types?
Correct Answer
C. Rolls-Royce Trent 700
Explanation
Turkish Airlines selected Rolls-Royce Trent 700 engines for both the Airbus A330-300 passenger and A330-200F freighter aircraft.
20.
Which Western engine manufacturer inked a deal to conduct preliminary design studies of an engine for Russia’s proposed MS-21 150-seat airliner?
Correct Answer
C. Pratt & Whitney
Explanation
Pratt & Whitney is the correct answer because they signed a deal to conduct preliminary design studies of an engine for Russia's proposed MS-21 150-seat airliner. This means that Pratt & Whitney will be involved in the initial stages of designing the engine for the aircraft.
21.
Will long-term plans for ATC give aircraft more or less autonomy?
Correct Answer
A. More
Explanation
Long-term plans for Air Traffic Control (ATC) will give aircraft more autonomy. This means that aircraft will have increased independence and control over their own operations and decision-making processes. This could include features such as autonomous navigation systems, improved communication technologies, and advanced collision avoidance systems. These advancements aim to enhance efficiency, safety, and overall effectiveness of air traffic management.
22.
Can a new holder of a Multi-crew Pilot Licence (MPL) legally fly for an airline the same day he/she graduates?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
Yes, because the MPL incorporates a type rating and the airline's own standard operating procedures.
23.
When volcanic ash affects Europe again, will the authorities make all the decision about whether flying is safe?
Correct Answer
B. No
Explanation
No, the airlines will be provided with the information about contamination levels and allowed to make their own decisions.
24.
With no external visual reference, what is the recommended sequence of actions to recover from an extreme aircraft attitude?
Correct Answer
D. Adjust power according to airspeed, roll wings level, select pitch attitude for level flight
Explanation
The recommended sequence of actions to recover from an extreme aircraft attitude is to first adjust power according to airspeed. This is important because adjusting power will help control the aircraft's speed and prevent further deviation from the desired flight path. Next, the pilot should roll the wings level to bring the aircraft back to a stable position. Finally, the pilot should select the appropriate pitch attitude for level flight to ensure the aircraft maintains a steady altitude. This sequence of actions allows for a systematic and effective recovery from an extreme aircraft attitude.
25.
What effect does a 90deg crosswind on a stabilised final approach have on the groundspeed and rate of descent (compared with still air conditions)?
Correct Answer
A. Decrease the groundspeed and decrease the required rate of descent
Explanation
A 90-degree crosswind on a stabilized final approach will decrease the groundspeed and decrease the required rate of descent. This is because the crosswind will cause the aircraft to drift sideways, resulting in a longer ground track. As a result, the groundspeed will decrease as the aircraft spends more time in the air. Additionally, the crosswind will create a lateral component of lift, which will help counteract the descent rate. Therefore, the required rate of descent will also decrease.
26.
In May, the X-51 Waverider made the longest-ever supersonic combustion ramjet-powered flight in May. Who built it?
Correct Answer
B. Boeing pHantomworks
Explanation
Boeing Phantomworks is the correct answer because they built the X-51 Waverider, which made the longest-ever supersonic combustion ramjet-powered flight in May. Lockheed Martin, EADS, and Raytheon are not the correct answers as they are not associated with the construction of the X-51 Waverider.
27.
The UK Ministry of Defence’s decision to expand the Skynet 5 military satellite communications constellation means how many additional satellites?
Correct Answer
A. One
Explanation
The UK Ministry of Defence has decided to expand the Skynet 5 military satellite communications constellation by adding one additional satellite.
28.
What US state is home to Spaceport America and Virgin Galactic’s future headquarters?
Correct Answer
D. New Mexico
Explanation
Spaceport America and Virgin Galactic's future headquarters are located in New Mexico. This state is home to the world's first purpose-built commercial spaceport and serves as a hub for space tourism and research. New Mexico's partnership with Virgin Galactic has positioned it as a leader in the emerging space industry, attracting tourists and investors from around the world.
29.
Name the SpaceX rocket developed with NASA for space station cargo resupply that launched for the first time this year.
Correct Answer
D. Falcon 9
Explanation
The correct answer is Falcon 9. Falcon 9 is the SpaceX rocket that was developed in collaboration with NASA for space station cargo resupply. It has been successfully launched multiple times, including its first launch this year.
30.
Which orbiter in the space shuttle fleet was scheduled to have its final flight in November, but will now remain in service until sometime in early 2011 due to launch delays?
Correct Answer
C. Discovery
Explanation
Discovery was scheduled to have its final flight in November but will now remain in service until early 2011 due to launch delays.
31.
ICAO members agreed on a global framework to reduce emissions from aviation during which ICAO general assembly?
Correct Answer
A. The 37th
Explanation
During the 37th ICAO General Assembly, members agreed on a global framework to reduce emissions from aviation. This indicates that the decision to implement measures to decrease emissions was made during this particular assembly.
32.
In which city was the last United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) held?
Correct Answer
C. Cancun
Explanation
The last United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held in Cancun.
33.
When does the European Union plan to fold international aviation emissions into its emissions trading scheme?
Correct Answer
B. 2012
Explanation
In 2012, the European Union planned to include international aviation emissions into its emissions trading scheme. This means that airlines operating in the EU would have to account for and reduce their carbon emissions. This move was aimed at addressing the environmental impact of aviation and promoting sustainability in the industry.
34.
British Airways recently teamed up with Cranfield University on a project to develop biofuels for aviation from which feedstock?
Correct Answer
A. Algae
Explanation
British Airways recently collaborated with Cranfield University to develop biofuels for aviation from algae. Algae is a promising feedstock for biofuel production due to its high oil content and ability to grow in various environments, including wastewater and non-arable land. Algae-based biofuels have the potential to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels, making them a sustainable alternative for the aviation industry.
35.
Open rotor engines have the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by what percentage?
Correct Answer
B. Up to 30%
Explanation
Open rotor engines have the potential to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by up to 30%. This is because open rotor engines are more fuel-efficient compared to traditional jet engines. They achieve this by having larger, slower-spinning propellers that generate more thrust with less fuel consumption. The increased efficiency leads to a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, making open rotor engines a promising solution for reducing the environmental impact of aviation.
36.
Whose 2010 bankruptcy marked the biggest airline casualty of the financial crisis?
Correct Answer
C. Japan Airlines
Explanation
Japan Airlines' 2010 bankruptcy marked the biggest airline casualty of the financial crisis. This bankruptcy was significant because Japan Airlines was one of the largest and most prominent airlines in the world. The financial crisis of 2008 had a severe impact on the global economy, including the airline industry. Japan Airlines faced various financial difficulties, including a large amount of debt and declining passenger numbers. Despite efforts to restructure and seek government assistance, the airline ultimately filed for bankruptcy in 2010, making it the biggest airline casualty of the financial crisis.
37.
Which of these airlines didn’t endure a cabin crew strike in 2010?
Correct Answer
C. Virgin Atlantic
Explanation
Virgin Atlantic is the correct answer because it did not endure a cabin crew strike in 2010. This means that while British Airways, Finnair, and Croatia Airlines all faced cabin crew strikes in that year, Virgin Atlantic did not experience any labor disputes with its cabin crew during that time.
38.
Which airline’s founder locked horns with its management over punctuality, dividends and fleet expansion plans?
Correct Answer
C. EasyJet
Explanation
EasyJet's founder, Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou, has had several disputes with the airline's management over various issues including punctuality, dividends, and fleet expansion plans. These disagreements have been well-documented in the media and have caused tension between the founder and the management team.
39.
Steven Udvar-Hazy retired as head of mega-lessor ILFC but resurfaced with which company?
Correct Answer
C. Air Lease
Explanation
Steven Udvar-Hazy retired as head of mega-lessor ILFC and then resurfaced with Air Lease. This indicates that after his retirement, he joined Air Lease as a part of their team or in a leadership position.
40.
General Electric sold its Wolverhampton, UK-based actuation systems business to which electronics supplier?
Correct Answer
B. Moog
Explanation
General Electric sold its Wolverhampton, UK-based actuation systems business to Moog.
41.
This year brought the 70th anniversary of the Battle of Taranto. Which Royal Navy aircraft wrought havoc on the Italian fleet?
Correct Answer
D. Swordfish
Explanation
The correct answer is Swordfish. The Swordfish was a Royal Navy aircraft that played a significant role in the Battle of Taranto. During the battle, Swordfish biplanes launched from the aircraft carrier HMS Illustrious carried out a successful surprise attack on the Italian fleet in the Taranto harbor. The Swordfish dropped torpedoes and bombs, causing significant damage to several Italian battleships and cruisers. The Battle of Taranto is considered a turning point in naval warfare as it demonstrated the effectiveness of carrier-based aircraft in naval battles.
42.
In 1909, two of which device built by Gustave Eiffel, of Eiffel Tower fame, were commissioned in Paris?
Correct Answer
C. Wind tunnels
Explanation
Gustave Eiffel, the renowned engineer behind the Eiffel Tower, built two wind tunnels in Paris in 1909. Wind tunnels are devices used to study the effects of airflow on objects, such as aircraft or buildings. These tunnels simulate the movement of air around the objects, allowing engineers and scientists to test their designs and make improvements. Eiffel's wind tunnels were significant advancements in aerodynamic research and played a crucial role in the development of aviation technology.
43.
In 1889, Otto Lilienthal, aka the “glider man”, published a landmark classical aeronautical engineering book. What was its title?
Correct Answer
D. ‘Bird Flight as the Basis of Aviation’
Explanation
The correct answer is 'Bird Flight as the Basis of Aviation'. This title suggests that the book explores the concept of bird flight and how it can be applied to the field of aviation. It indicates that Lilienthal believed that studying bird flight could provide valuable insights and serve as a foundation for human flight. This aligns with Lilienthal's reputation as the "glider man" and his pioneering work in the field of aeronautical engineering.
44.
In 1946, the son of which famed aircraft designer was killed in an attempt to break the “sound barrier”?
Correct Answer
A. Sir Geoffrey de Havilland
Explanation
Sir Geoffrey de Havilland was a famed aircraft designer known for his work in the early 20th century. His son, Geoffrey de Havilland Jr., was a test pilot who tragically lost his life in 1946 while attempting to break the sound barrier. This event was a significant moment in aviation history, as it highlighted the dangers and challenges involved in achieving supersonic flight.
45.
Which electrical engineer is credited for developing the best-known formula for the range of a propeller-driven aircraft?
Correct Answer
C. Louis-Charles Breguet
Explanation
Louis-Charles Breguet is credited for developing the best-known formula for the range of a propeller-driven aircraft. He was a French electrical engineer and aviation pioneer who made significant contributions to the field of aviation. Breguet's formula for range calculation took into account factors such as the aircraft's weight, engine power, and fuel consumption, making it a valuable tool for determining the range capabilities of propeller-driven aircraft. His work in this area greatly advanced the understanding and development of aircraft technology.
46.
Which space-shuttle fleet member, now in a museum, was not originally designed for spaceflight?
Correct Answer
B. Enterprise
Explanation
Enterprise was not originally designed for spaceflight. It was built as a prototype for the space shuttle program and was used for atmospheric testing and approach and landing tests. It never flew in space and is now on display at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum in New York City.
47.
Who was the first female to pilot the space shuttle?
Correct Answer
C. Eileen Collins
Explanation
Eileen Collins was the first female to pilot the space shuttle. She made history in 1995 when she became the first woman to pilot a space shuttle mission, specifically the STS-63 mission. Collins went on to achieve even greater milestones, becoming the first female commander of a space shuttle mission in 1999 with the STS-93 mission. Her achievements paved the way for more women to pursue careers in space exploration and inspired future generations of female astronauts.
48.
Which space shuttle was the first to go into orbit, taking off on 12 April 1981 for STS-1?
Correct Answer
A. Columbia
Explanation
Columbia was the first space shuttle to go into orbit on 12 April 1981 for STS-1.
49.
What European country first used unmanned aerial vehicles in warfare, attacking the city of Venice with balloons loaded with explosives in 1849?
Correct Answer
D. Austria
Explanation
Austria is the correct answer because it was the first European country to use unmanned aerial vehicles in warfare. In 1849, Austria attacked the city of Venice using balloons loaded with explosives. This early use of aerial warfare demonstrates Austria's pioneering role in the development and deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles during that time.
50.
Even before there were air forces, there were aviation defence contracts. Who landed the world’s first (and delivered the aircraft on schedule and under budget)?
Correct Answer
C. Orville and Wilbur Wright
Explanation
Orville and Wilbur Wright are credited with landing the world's first aviation defence contract, delivering the aircraft on schedule and under budget. They were pioneers in aviation and their successful contract paved the way for the development of air forces in the future.