Page 32 - SSB Interview: The Complete Guide, Second Edition

Written test based on instrument reading

Light control test based on sensory-motor apparatus

Drum test to check control of velocity

Instrument Reading Test

Aircraft have several instruments that indicate various parameters which the
pilot is required to monitor. This test is to see if the candidate can read the

instruments and make mental calculations. Each instrument used in the test is
described briefly in the subsequent paragraphs.

Magnetic Compass (Gyroscope): This gauge indicates the direction of
the flight. It has a suspended needle that always points towards true

North and with respect to the true North, one can read the direction in
which the aircraft is flying.

Air Speed Indicator: This instrument provides the speed of the air,
which is a vital parameter for flying operations. This instrument will

provide the indicated Air Speed that is required to be corrected for
certain instruments and positional errors to arrive at True Air Speed in

kilometres or miles.

Altimeter: This instrument provides the height at which the aircraft is

flying. It is measured in feet or yards. This instrument has three needles
like a wristwatch. Of this, the smallest needle indicates height in

multiples of 10,000 feet, the middle needle indicates height in multiples

of 1,000 feet and the larger needle indicates height in multiples of 100
feet.

Artificial Horizon: This instrument provides a reference in terms of the

horizon for indicating climb, descent, right turn and left turn of the

aircraft.

Turn Indicator: This instrument indicates the turn on either side of the