FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)Aerodynamics and Aircraft SystemsMedium
An airplane's Type Certificate Data Sheet certifies it in the Normal category under 14 CFR Part 23, with a positive limit load factor of +3.8G. Which of the following would violate the operating limitations for this category?
- AA stabilized climb at Vy
- BAn intentional spin maneuver
- CA shallow turn at a 20-degree bank angle
- DA steep turn at a 60-degree bank angle, which produces approximately 2G
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. An intentional spin maneuver
Airplanes certificated in the Normal category are prohibited from intentional spins unless specifically approved and placarded for spin training. A 60-degree bank turn (about 2G) is well within the +3.8G limit and is a normal, approved maneuver.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A climb at Vy involves no significant load factor increase.
- C. A shallow turn produces well under 1.5G and is not a concern.
- D. 2G from a 60-degree bank is far below the 3.8G limit and is a normal maneuver.
Airworthiness Category Limits
Part 23 airplanes are certificated in categories (Normal, Utility, Aerobatic) with different limit load factors and permitted maneuvers; Normal category typically prohibits intentional spins and aerobatic maneuvers.
- Normal category limit load factor: +3.8G
- Utility category allows higher G and limited aerobatic maneuvers like spins
- Aerobatic category allows the widest maneuver envelope, +6.0G typical
Memory trick: Normal means no spins — stick to gentle G's.