Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a Rectangular Course maneuver?

1. To practice emergency descent techniques

2. To maintain a constant ground track equidistant from a rectangular area

3. To execute constant climbs and descents

4. To navigate using only visual reference points

The correct answer is: To maintain a constant ground track equidistant from a rectangular area

The purpose of a Rectangular Course maneuver is to maintain a constant ground track that is equidistant from a rectangular area. This maneuver emphasizes the pilot's ability to control the aircraft's position and altitude while managing wind drift, which is essential for navigating in a predictable manner. By flying the aircraft in a rectangular pattern, the pilot practices turning the aircraft accurately while maintaining the desired distance from the turns of the rectangle, ensuring that they can judge control inputs relative to ground references. This exercise also serves to enhance skills in visual reference and situational awareness, allowing pilots to anticipate and adjust for variations in wind conditions while keeping a steady track. Additionally, this maneuver lays the groundwork for understanding more complex navigation techniques and is crucial for ensuring pilots can maintain control in varying conditions.