Answers With Rationales.
Technical Airline Interview Questions (CW)
Questions 1–30
Question 1
What is the primary function of the hydraulic system in an aircraft?
A. Fuel storage
B. Electrical power generation
C. Operate flight controls, landing gear, and brakes
D. Cabin pressurization
Correct Answer: C
Rationale:
Hydraulics provide force multiplication for flight controls, landing gear, brakes, and other high-load
systems.
Question 2
During pre-flight, a candidate notices low hydraulic fluid. What should they do?
A. Ignore it
B. Report to maintenance before flight
C. Top up without authorization
D. Continue flight as normal
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
Low hydraulic fluid can compromise critical systems; it must be reported and checked before
departure.
Question 3
Which of the following affects aircraft performance the most during takeoff?
,A. Outside air temperature
B. Cabin crew seating
C. Passenger meal preferences
D. Radio frequency
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Temperature and pressure altitude affect engine thrust and lift, directly impacting takeoff
performance.
Question 4
What is the purpose of winglets on modern aircraft?
A. Reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency
B. Increase passenger comfort
C. Improve cabin pressurization
D. Reduce noise only
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Winglets reduce induced drag, improving fuel efficiency and climb performance.
Question 5
A common aircraft systems interview trap:
A. Knowing hydraulic systems
B. Confusing bleed air with hydraulic systems
C. Understanding electrical distribution
D. Understanding landing gear operation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
Bleed air powers pressurization and air conditioning, not hydraulics; candidates often confuse these
systems.
Question 6
During an interview, how should a candidate answer a question on engine failure on takeoff?
A. “I would continue takeoff”
B. Follow engine failure procedure and reject takeoff if necessary
C. Guess the response
D. Ignore standard operating procedures
Correct Answer: B
, Rationale:
Airlines expect candidates to demonstrate knowledge of SOPs and safety prioritization.
Question 7
Which system controls aircraft pitch, roll, and yaw?
A. Autopilot only
B. Flight control system (hydraulic/mechanical)
C. Fuel system
D. Cabin pressurization system
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
The primary flight control system, often hydraulically assisted, manages pitch, roll, and yaw.
Question 8
During pre-flight, the candidate is asked: What is a MEL?
A. Maximum Engine Limit
B. Minimum Equipment List
C. Manual Entry Log
D. Main Electrical Line
Correct Answer: B
Rationale:
MEL allows certain equipment to be inoperative under specified conditions, ensuring regulatory
compliance.
Question 9
Which factor is most critical for takeoff distance calculation?
A. Airport elevation and temperature
B. Passenger seating plan
C. Flight attendant schedule
D. In-flight meal plan
Correct Answer: A
Rationale:
Elevation and temperature affect air density, directly impacting takeoff distance.
Question 10
A candidate is asked about fuel imbalance. What is correct?