Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What is the first step in the power-off stall procedure?

1. Clearing Turns

2. Reduce power and maintain back pressure

3. Establish a specific heading and altitude

4. Extend landing gear

The correct answer is: Establish a specific heading and altitude

The initial step in the power-off stall procedure is to establish a specific heading and altitude. This step is crucial because it ensures that the aircraft is in a controlled environment before practicing the stall maneuver. By maintaining a designated heading and altitude, the pilot can focus on the stall recovery technique without the added variables of altitude loss or heading deviation, which could complicate the maneuver and create unsafe conditions. Once the specific heading and altitude are established, the pilot can then ensure that clearing turns are performed to check for traffic, and that the aircraft is set up properly for the stall by reducing power and maintaining back pressure. However, these actions follow the establishment of a stable flight environment. Thus, initiating the procedure with a clear focus on heading and altitude is essential for safety and effectiveness.