General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) Aeronautical Information Publication (AIP) Practice Exam

Under what condition are the alternate/reserve brakes activated?

1. When C HYD system pressure is low

2. Automatically, if R HYD system pressure is low

3. Manually, by the pilot

4. When the aircraft is on the ground

The correct answer is: Automatically, if R HYD system pressure is low

The activation of alternate/reserve brakes is designed to enhance safety during situations where a critical hydraulic system may fail or experience pressure issues. When the primary hydraulic system experiences low pressure, the aircraft is equipped with a feature that automatically activates the alternate or reserve brake system to ensure that the pilot maintains control over the aircraft and can safely stop it. This automatic feature is crucial because it allows for immediate intervention without requiring pilot action, which is especially important during critical phases of flight such as landing. The other options describe situations that do not align with the automatic activation principle of the alternate/reserve brakes. While a pilot can engage the brakes manually or conditions on the ground can impact brake systems, the key aspect of option B lies in the automatic response to low pressure in the R HYD system, affirming the aircraft's design intent to provide safety and control without relying on pilot intervention in an emergency.