Free Helicopter Pilot License (PPL) Exam Questions and Answers

During the climb after a normal takeoff, the airspeed that provides the greatest gain in altitude per unit of time is the

• AA. best rate-of-climb airspeed.
• BB. best autorotative glide airspeed.
• CC. best angle-of-climb airspeed.

Before beginning a flight that is not in the vicinity of an airport, the pilot in command must become familiar with

• AA. weather reports and forecasts, fuel requirements, and alternatives available if the planned flight cannot be completed.
• BB. runway lengths at airports of intended use, fuel requirements, and the maintenance status of the helicopter.
• CC. weather reports and forecasts, the nearest maintenance facilities, and the location of each flight service station on the route.

A helicopter hover taxiing at a towered airport approaches a taxiway marking of two solid yellow lines on the near side and two dashed yellow lines on the far side. What does this marking require of the pilot?

• AA. Stop and hold until ATC clears the helicopter to cross.
• BB. Cross once the runway and final approach path are visually clear.
• CC. Cross after announcing intentions on the tower frequency.

In a helicopter with a counterclockwise main rotor system (viewed from above), maintaining heading while increasing collective pitch at a hover requires

• AA. increased left pedal pressure.
• BB. decreased left pedal pressure.
• CC. increased right pedal pressure.

A private pilot with a helicopter rating completed a flight review on March 14, 2024. If no other qualifying event occurs, through what date may this pilot act as pilot in command?

• AA. March 31, 2026
• BB. March 31, 2025
• CC. March 14, 2026

You are approaching an airport for landing and notice a gusty wind. What is your priority?

• AA. Continue with the landing
• BB. Adjust your approach speed
• CC. Land without checking
• DD. Ignore the wind

While flying, you experience a sudden loss of power. What should you do first?

• AA. Maintain altitude
• BB. Trim the aircraft
• CC. Attempt an emergency landing
• DD. Check fuel gauge

During a pre-flight check, you notice a crack in the rotor blade. What is your course of action?

• AA. Ignore it
• BB. Report it and ground the helicopter
• CC. Fly anyway
• DD. Check with a mechanic

You are in a hover and suddenly lose tail rotor effectiveness. What is your immediate response?

• AA. Reduce collective pitch
• BB. Descend immediately
• CC. Turn into the wind
• DD. Increase power

In case of a controlled flight into terrain (CFIT) scenario, what is the most important factor to consider?

• AA. Awareness of surroundings
• BB. Fuel management
• CC. Altitude
• DD. Weather conditions