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

What component’s condition is assessed during the nose gear inspection?

1. Tail rotor

2. Steering mechanism

3. Engine cowling

4. Autopilot system

The correct answer is: Steering mechanism

During a nose gear inspection, the primary focus is on the steering mechanism. The nose gear plays a critical role in the overall maneuverability of the aircraft while on the ground, particularly during taxiing, takeoff, and landing. The steering mechanism is integral to the function of the nose gear, allowing the pilot to control the direction of the aircraft. Assessing the condition of the steering mechanism ensures that it functions properly without any signs of wear, damage, or malfunction, which are essential for safe ground operations. A failure in the steering mechanism could lead to significant control challenges when maneuvering on the ground, potentially resulting in accidents or damage to the aircraft. The other components listed, such as the tail rotor, engine cowling, and autopilot system, are not related to the functionality of the nose gear. While these parts are important in their own right, they do not affect the aircraft’s ground handling capability in the same manner as the steering mechanism associated with the nose gear.