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

When will CONT ignition automatically activate?

1. During normal flight conditions

2. Second attempt during engine start on ground

3. When fuel pressure is low

4. During taxi operations

The correct answer is: Second attempt during engine start on ground

The automatic activation of CONT (Continuous Ignition) is designed to enhance engine reliability during certain critical phases of operation. It is particularly activated during the second attempt to start an engine on the ground. This is to ensure that, if the first start attempt is unsuccessful, the ignition system is automatically engaged on the second try to facilitate ignition, thereby reducing the likelihood of an engine stall or failure to start due to insufficient combustion. In contrast, normal flight conditions do not typically require continuous ignition unless there are specific issues with the engine or operational environment. Low fuel pressure may trigger other safety mechanisms but does not specifically activate CONT ignition. During taxi operations, the need for continuous ignition is generally not a requirement unless specified by particular procedures or environmental factors, such as certain weather conditions that could lead to engine performance issues. This automated feature is mainly a safeguard employed under defined circumstances, such as during the second attempt for engine starting, to bolster the chances of a successful ignition and ensure a smoother operational experience.