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

What is the primary benefit of main gear steering in aircraft?

1. To enhance fuel efficiency

2. To improve turning radius and reduce tire scrubbing

3. To increase takeoff weight capacity

4. To minimize pilot workload during landing

The correct answer is: To improve turning radius and reduce tire scrubbing

The primary benefit of main gear steering in aircraft lies in its ability to improve the turning radius and reduce tire scrubbing. Main gear steering allows the aircraft to pivot more effectively on the ground, particularly during taxiing and maneuvering on the ramp or runway. This capability is crucial because it enables the aircraft to navigate tighter spaces with ease, enhancing operational efficiency at airports where space is limited. By allowing the main gear to pivot in tandem with the nose gear or to employ differential braking on the main wheels, the aircraft can make sharper turns without needing to travel as far forward, resulting in a smaller turning radius. This capability minimizes the wear and tear on tires by reducing scrubbing, which can occur when the wheels slide sideways during turns. Other choices such as enhancing fuel efficiency, increasing takeoff weight capacity, or minimizing pilot workload during landing do not directly relate to the essential function of main gear steering. Each of these aspects pertains to different operational efficiencies in aircraft design and aerodynamics but does not encapsulate the specific advantages provided by main gear steering in terms of ground maneuverability.