Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

What is a primary responsibility when handling a power-off stall?

1. To maintain a specific heading

2. To retract flaps immediately

3. To climb at Vy after stall recovery

4. To extend landing gear during the maneuver

The correct answer is: To maintain a specific heading

Maintaining a specific heading during a power-off stall is crucial because it reflects the pilot's ability to manage the aircraft's direction and stability while simulating an approach to landing scenario. In a power-off stall, the aircraft enters a condition where the wings can no longer maintain lift due to insufficient airspeed, and it’s important to keep the aircraft aligned with the desired flight path to avoid unintended bank angles or loss of control. By focusing on heading control, pilots develop the necessary skills to recover from a stall while ensuring the aircraft remains within safe flight parameters. This aspect of stall recovery is vital, especially in real-world landing scenarios where maintaining straight flight is essential for safety. Other responses, while relevant to stall recovery, do not directly address the immediate need to maintain control over the aircraft’s flight path during such a critical maneuver.