Task G: Operation of Systems

Here's a breakdown of the specific systems you need to understand:

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PA.I.G.K1a a. Primary flight controls: You need to understand the primary flight controls and how they are used to control the airplane's movement. The airplane rotates in bank, pitch, and yaw. The primary controls, along with trim, are used to control pitch, bank, and yaw. Knowing the effect and use of these controls is fundamental. The design of flight control systems, such as mechanical systems using rods, cables, pulleys, and sometimes chains, transmits forces from the flight deck controls to the control surfaces. You must become familiar with the primary flight control systems of the aircraft you are flying, with the AFM or POH being the primary source of this information. Flight controls are also listed as a subcomponent of an airplane.

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PA.I.G.K1b b. Secondary flight controls: These controls are used to assist the pilot in controlling the airplane and include items like flaps. Flaps change the lift and drag on the wing. A complex airplane is defined as having, controllable pitch propeller, retractable landing gear and flaps. As with primary controls, you must become familiar with the secondary flight control systems using the AFM or POH.

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PA.I.G.K1c c. Powerplant and propeller: This refers to the engine and propeller, which form the propulsion system. You need to understand how the engine and propeller function properly prior to operation. This includes visual inspections, such as checking the cowling for loose, worn, missing, or damaged fasteners. The POH/AFM typically has sections describing the powerplant and propeller. Understanding engine failure, engine fire, and engine inoperative flight principles is also part of managing the risks associated with this critical system. A controllable pitch propeller is a characteristic of a complex airplane. You should also be familiar with concepts like P-Factor, a left-turning tendency caused by the propeller's asymmetric thrust.

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PA.I.G.K1d d. Landing gear: You need to understand the landing gear system of your aircraft, which can vary from simple fixed gear to complex retractable gear systems. You should be familiar with different types like tricycle landing gear and tailwheel landing gear. The landing gear, tires, and brakes must be inspected to ensure the airplane can be controlled on the ground. Retractable landing gear is a defining feature of a complex airplane. Landing gear is also listed as a subcomponent of an airplane. Hydraulic systems may be associated with landing gear operation.

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PA.I.G.K1e e. Fuel, oil, and hydraulic: You need to understand these systems, which are crucial for the engine's operation. This includes knowledge of the fuel system, such as boost pumps and gravity-feed systems. For oil, you should understand the importance of checking the correct quantity, quality, and grade and ensuring caps are securely replaced. Hydraulic systems are also a required knowledge area.

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PA.I.G.K1f f. Electrical: The electrical system is typically powered by an engine-driven alternator. You should understand components like bus bars and bus ties and know how power sources work. Knowledge of electrical system malfunctions is covered in emergency procedures. For night flight, specific required equipment includes a source of power, anti-collision lights, and position lights, which rely on the electrical system. The electrical system is listed as an aircraft system. and a subcomponent.

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PA.I.G.K1g g. Avionics: This covers the aircraft's electronic systems for navigation, communication, and flight information display. You should understand electronic flight instrument displays (EFD), such as Primary Flight Displays (PFD) and Multi-Function Displays (MFD). Knowledge of operating avionics systems, including transponders and systems like GPS, WAAS, FMS, and autopilot, is important. You should be able to demonstrate automation management skills by utilizing installed equipment. While EFDs require the same attention as analog instruments, understanding the system conceptually is important. Other systems like flight directors, TCAS, TAWS, and GPWS are also considered avionics.

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PA.I.G.K1h h. Pitot-static, vacuum/pressure, and associated flight instruments: This includes understanding how the pitot-static system provides information for instruments like the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator (VSI). You should know about pitot pressure and pressure altitude. Understanding vacuum/pressure systems and gyroscopic instruments (which rely on vacuum or electrical power) is also essential. Recognizing errors and malfunctions of these instruments is key to safe flight. Pitot-static system malfunctions are specific knowledge areas for emergencies. The magnetic compass is also a required instrument.

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PA.I.G.K1i i. Environmental: This category typically includes systems that control the cabin environment. While the sources don't go into extensive detail for the private pilot level, they do mention environmental control systems and specific systems like combustion heaters, cabin pressurization, and oxygen systems.

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PA.I.G.K1j j. Deicing and anti-icing: These systems are designed to prevent or remove ice accumulation on the aircraft, which significantly affects performance. You should understand the operation of anti-icing/deicing equipment and specific types of icing like carburetor ice, which forms inside the carburetor due to fuel vaporization and can reduce fuel flow or vary the fuel/air ratio. Bleed air can be used for deice/anti-ice systems.

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PA.I.G.K1k k. Water rudders (ASES, AMES): The provided sources do not contain information specifically about water rudders. This system is relevant for seaplanes (Airplane Single-Engine Sea and Airplane Multiengine Sea ratings).

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PA.I.G.K1l l. Oxygen system: You need to understand the oxygen system, especially if operating at altitudes where supplemental oxygen is required. The sources mention oxygen systems, including pressure demand oxygen systems, and the use of oxygen masks, particularly in emergency situations like decompression.

To prepare for this task on your private pilot exam, study the systems in your specific aircraft's POH/AFM. Be ready to explain how each system works, its normal operation, potential malfunctions, and how to address those malfunctions using checklists and procedures. You should also be prepared to demonstrate your ability to operate key systems during the flight portion of the test. Understanding these systems is crucial for ensuring the aircraft is airworthy and in a safe condition for flight.

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**I'm not a CFI, don't forget to verify the information as times change. Email me for any updates that I might have missed.