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

What component controls the engines?

1. Engine throttle

2. Electronic Engine Control (EEC)

3. Manual control levers

4. Aircraft control unit

The correct answer is: Electronic Engine Control (EEC)

The correct choice is the Electronic Engine Control (EEC), which is a crucial component in modern aircraft engine management systems. The EEC functions by regulating engine performance, including fuel flow, power settings, and overall engine efficiency, based on various inputs from the aircraft's systems and environment. It ensures that the engines operate within optimal parameters, enhancing performance while also ensuring safety by monitoring and adjusting engine functions in real-time. While manual control levers and engine throttle also play important roles in managing engine output, they typically serve as input devices for the EEC. The manual control levers allow pilots to set desired power levels, but the EEC converts those inputs into precise control actions that optimize engine operation. Without the EEC, the engines would not be able to respond dynamically to varying flight conditions as effectively. Thus, while both manual control levers and engine throttles are part of the engine control process, they rely on the EEC to translate inputs into actual engine function, making the EEC the primary control unit for engine management in contemporary aircraft.