Inspector Exam Practice Questions And
Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus
Rationale 2026 Q&A| Instant Download
1. An airport infrastructure inspector evaluating runway pavement must
primarily assess which structural characteristic to determine load-
bearing capacity under aircraft operations?
A. Surface color reflectivity
B. Subgrade soil classification
C. Pavement marking visibility
D. Runway lighting alignment
Answer: B
Rationale: Subgrade soil classification directly influences the load-
bearing capacity of runway pavement, as it determines how well the
, underlying layers can support aircraft weight and repeated loading
cycles.
2. During an inspection of airport taxiways, the presence of alligator
cracking most likely indicates which underlying issue?
A. Excessive surface polishing
B. Structural fatigue failure of pavement layers
C. Improper paint application
D. Drainage over-efficiency
Answer: B
Rationale: Alligator cracking is a classic sign of fatigue failure caused
by repeated loading and insufficient structural support in pavement
layers.
3. Which Federal Aviation Administration standard governs airport
pavement design and evaluation in the United States?
A. AC 150/5370-10
B. AC 150/5320-6
C. AC 150/5340-1
D. AC 150/5200-30
Answer: B
Rationale: FAA Advisory Circular 150/5320-6 provides guidelines for
airport pavement design and evaluation, including structural
requirements.
,4. An inspector identifies ponding water on a runway after rainfall. What
is the most critical concern associated with this condition?
A. Increased tire wear
B. Reduced lighting visibility
C. Hydroplaning risk
D. Paint fading
Answer: C
Rationale: Ponding water significantly increases the risk of
hydroplaning, which can lead to loss of aircraft control during
landing and takeoff.
5. Which slope is generally recommended for runway transverse
drainage to prevent water accumulation?
A. 0.1%
B. 0.5% to 1.5%
C. 3% to 5%
D. 6%
Answer: B
Rationale: A transverse slope between 0.5% and 1.5% is typically
recommended to ensure proper drainage without compromising
aircraft stability.
6. What is the primary purpose of runway grooving?
A. Enhance aesthetic appearance
B. Improve drainage and reduce hydroplaning
, C. Increase pavement thickness
D. Support lighting systems
Answer: B
Rationale: Runway grooving channels water away from tire contact
surfaces, reducing hydroplaning and improving braking performance.
7. During a lighting system inspection, what is the main function of
runway edge lights?
A. Indicate wind direction
B. Mark runway boundaries
C. Guide taxiway movement
D. Illuminate terminal areas
Answer: B
Rationale: Runway edge lights define the lateral limits of the
runway, ensuring pilots maintain proper alignment.
8. What type of defect in asphalt pavement is characterized by the
displacement of material forming ridges?
A. Raveling
B. Rutting
C. Bleeding
D. Corrugation
Answer: D
Rationale: Corrugation refers to wave-like ridges caused by
instability in asphalt, often due to braking forces.