Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

In eights on pylons, what should be maintained to keep the reference line on the pylon?

1. Uniform straight flight

2. Vertical position with respect to the horizon

3. Appropriate pivotal altitude

4. Constant distance from the pylon

The correct answer is: Appropriate pivotal altitude

In the maneuver known as eights on pylons, maintaining the appropriate pivotal altitude is crucial. The pivotal altitude is the height at which the aircraft will appear to pivot around the pylon, allowing the reference line to remain aligned with the pylon as the aircraft flies a continuous loop. When executed correctly, the aircraft maintains a constant relationship with the pylon, making it seem as though it is turning around the pylon itself. This altitude is influenced by the distance from the pylon and the bank angle of the aircraft, so recognizing and maintaining this altitude is key to executing the maneuver effectively. While maintaining uniform straight flight, vertical position, and a constant distance from the pylon are important aspects of flight maneuvers in general, they do not specifically address the requirements for keeping the reference line on the pylon as accurately as understanding and maintaining the appropriate pivotal altitude does. This altitude ensures that the aircraft remains in a correct flight path relative to the pylon, thus allowing for a visually effective and controlled maneuver.