Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What should be the aircraft's attitude at the end of a Chandelle?

1. Wings level, nose low

2. Nose high, at minimum controllable airspeed

3. Level, with no pitch change

4. Nose low, at a high speed

The correct answer is: Nose high, at minimum controllable airspeed

The correct answer focuses on the aircraft's attitude at the end of a Chandelle maneuver, which is a steep, climbing turn intended to demonstrate the aircraft's performance. At the culmination of this maneuver, the aircraft should be in a nose-high position, ideally at or near the minimum controllable airspeed. This configuration ensures that the aircraft has sufficient altitude and is transitioning into a coordinated level flight after executing the turn while being conscious of performance limits. Maintaining the nose high at minimum controllable airspeed signifies that the pilot has controlled the energy state of the aircraft effectively, allowing for safe and smooth continuation of flight. It is crucial for maintaining control and preventing a stall, which could occur if the aircraft were at too low of an airspeed. The emphasis on "minimum controllable airspeed" also highlights the importance of safety, as pilots must remain aware of their aircraft's handling characteristics and limitations during such maneuvers.