Private Pilot Private Exam

When must each occupant of an aircraft wear an approved parachute?

1. When the aircraft ascends above 10,000 feet

2. When intentionally pitching the nose of the aircraft up or down 30º or more

3. During all night flights

4. When flying over water

The correct answer is: When intentionally pitching the nose of the aircraft up or down 30º or more

It is required for each occupant of an aircraft to wear an approved parachute when intentionally pitching the nose of the aircraft up or down 30 degrees or more. This requirement is primarily a safety measure aimed at protecting occupants during specific maneuvers that could result in a rapid loss of control or altitude. When aggressive maneuvers are performed, particularly those that could lead to a stall or unusual attitudes, the risk of an emergency situation increases. Wearing parachutes in these scenarios provides an added layer of safety, allowing occupants to exit the aircraft if necessary. The other scenarios in the question do not universally mandate the wearing of parachutes. For instance, while flying above 10,000 feet may have different oxygen requirements, it does not directly relate to parachute use for all occupants. Similarly, night flights and flying over water have their own situational considerations but do not have a blanket requirement for parachute use in the same way that aggressive maneuvers do.