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CAA-B Air Law study materials
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CAA-B Air Law practice questions

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Question 1Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Under the ICAO Convention on International Civil Aviation (Chicago Convention), which body is the permanent governing organ responsible for adopting international Standards and Recommended Practices?

  1. The ICAO Council Correct answer.
  2. The Assembly
  3. The Secretariat
  4. The Air Navigation Commission

Explanation

The Council is the permanent governing body of ICAO, elected by the Assembly, and it adopts and amends Annexes containing Standards and Recommended Practices. The Assembly meets only periodically and does not itself adopt Annexes.

Question 2Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the legal status of an ICAO Standard contained in an Annex to the Chicago Convention for a contracting State that has not filed a difference?

  1. It is advisory guidance only
  2. It has no effect until incorporated into a bilateral agreement
  3. It is binding on that State once the Annex is adopted Correct answer.
  4. It becomes binding only after ratification by the State's parliament

Explanation

Under Articles 37 and 38 of the Chicago Convention, contracting States undertake to comply with adopted Standards and must notify ICAO of any differences. Silence means the Standard applies to that State.

Question 3Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Which document is issued to a contracting State to certify that an aircraft and its operator meet the requirements for international commercial air transport?

  1. An air operator certificate Correct answer.
  2. A certificate of airworthiness
  3. A certificate of registration
  4. An aircraft radio station licence

Explanation

The air operator certificate (AOC) certifies the operator and its organisation for commercial air transport, while the certificate of airworthiness addresses the individual aircraft. Registration and radio licences concern identity and communications equipment only.

Question 4Air law: legislation and rules of the air

In Annex 2 terminology, what does the word "shall" signify when used in a Standard?

  1. A mandatory requirement Correct answer.
  2. A permission
  3. A recommendation
  4. A suggested practice

Explanation

Annex 2 uses "shall" to indicate a mandatory requirement, "should" for a recommendation, and "may" for a permission. This drafting convention is stated in the Foreword of the Annex.

Question 5Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft is flying over the high seas. Which rules of the air apply to it?

  1. The rules of the nearest coastal State
  2. The rules agreed by the operator's home base
  3. The rules of the State whose aircraft it is
  4. The rules established under the Chicago Convention, without exception Correct answer.

Explanation

Article 12 of the Chicago Convention requires that over the high seas the rules in force shall be those established under the Convention. Annex 2 applies there without the territorial variations that States may make over their own territory.

Question 6Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the primary purpose of the rules of the air in Annex 2?

  1. To prevent collisions and ensure orderly and safe flight Correct answer.
  2. To define airline liability limits
  3. To set aircraft maintenance intervals
  4. To allocate airspace for military use

Explanation

Annex 2 sets out the rules governing the conduct of flight with the principal aim of preventing collisions and ensuring orderly, safe operations. Maintenance and liability are governed by other Annexes and conventions.

Question 7Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft is on final approach to land and another aircraft is on the runway. Which aircraft has the right of way?

  1. The aircraft on the runway
  2. Neither; both must stop
  3. The aircraft that is heavier
  4. The aircraft on final approach to land Correct answer.

Explanation

An aircraft in flight has the right of way over aircraft on the ground, and an aircraft on final approach to land has right of way over other aircraft in flight or on the ground. The landing aircraft therefore takes precedence.

Question 8Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Two aircraft of the same category are approaching head-on at the same altitude. What action is required?

  1. The lower aircraft descends
  2. Both aircraft alter heading to the left
  3. Both aircraft alter heading to the right Correct answer.
  4. The faster aircraft climbs

Explanation

When two aircraft are approaching head-on or nearly so at approximately the same level, each shall alter its heading to the right. This ensures they pass well clear of each other.

Question 9Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft is overtaking another aircraft. Which aircraft has the right of way, and on which side should the overtaking aircraft pass?

  1. The overtaken aircraft has right of way; the overtaking aircraft passes on the right Correct answer.
  2. The faster aircraft has right of way and may pass either side
  3. The heavier aircraft has right of way and passes on the left
  4. The overtaking aircraft has right of way; it passes on the left

Explanation

An aircraft being overtaken has the right of way, and the overtaking aircraft must keep clear by altering heading to the right. Speed or weight does not confer priority.

Question 10Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Two aircraft of the same category are converging at approximately the same level. The aircraft that has the other on its right must do what?

  1. Give way Correct answer.
  2. Maintain course and speed
  3. Climb immediately
  4. Turn left and descend

Explanation

Under the converging rule, the aircraft that has the other on its right shall give way, typically by altering heading to the right and passing behind the other aircraft. The aircraft with the other on its left maintains course and speed.

Question 11Air law: legislation and rules of the air

In which of the following situations must an aircraft display navigation lights?

  1. During night operations and during any period of poor visibility Correct answer.
  2. Only when operating under IFR
  3. Only when carrying passengers
  4. Only when flying in controlled airspace

Explanation

Navigation lights must be displayed at night and at any time when visibility is reduced, regardless of the flight rules or airspace class. This ensures other aircraft can see and avoid it.

Question 12Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What does a flashing red light directed at an aircraft in flight mean?

  1. Clear to land
  2. Return for landing
  3. Give way to other aircraft and continue circling Correct answer.
  4. Airport unsafe, do not land

Explanation

In the light-signal table for aircraft in flight, a flashing red signal means "give way to other aircraft and continue circling". A steady red means give way; a flashing green means return for landing.

Question 13Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft on the ground receives a steady red light from the tower. What must the pilot do?

  1. Taxi clear of the runway
  2. Proceed with caution
  3. Take off
  4. Stop Correct answer.

Explanation

For an aircraft on the ground, a steady red light means stop. A flashing red means taxi clear of the landing area, and a flashing green permits taxiing.

Question 14Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the meaning of a flashing white light directed at an aircraft on the ground?

  1. Take off
  2. Clear to taxi
  3. Return to starting point on the airport Correct answer.
  4. Stop

Explanation

In the ground-vehicle/aircraft-on-ground signal table, a flashing white light means return to starting point on the airport. It is distinct from the taxi and stop signals.

Question 15Air law: legislation and rules of the air

When must position lights on an aircraft be displayed in relation to sunset and sunrise?

  1. Only when the aircraft is airborne
  2. From one hour before sunset to one hour after sunrise
  3. From sunset to sunrise Correct answer.
  4. From civil twilight to civil twilight

Explanation

Navigation lights must be displayed from sunset to sunrise and during periods of reduced visibility. The requirement is not tied to civil twilight or to a buffer around sunset and sunrise.

Question 16Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What does a red pyrotechnic signal displayed by an aircraft in flight indicate?

  1. Distress and immediate assistance required Correct answer.
  2. A request to land
  3. A request for radio contact
  4. A warning of turbulence

Explanation

A red pyrotechnic (flare) displayed by an aircraft indicates distress and the need for immediate assistance. It is a recognised distress signal under the rules of the air.

Question 17Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Which of the following is a recognised signal of distress for an aircraft?

  1. A steady white light
  2. A square flag with a ball above or below it Correct answer.
  3. A rocking of the wings
  4. A green flare

Explanation

Among the recognised distress signals is a square flag having above or below it a ball or anything resembling a ball. Green flares and steady white lights are not distress signals.

Question 18Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft is intercepted by another aircraft. What should the intercepted aircraft do first?

  1. Squawk 7700 and descend
  2. Turn away from the intercepting aircraft
  3. Follow the intercepting aircraft's instructions and establish radio contact Correct answer.
  4. Climb immediately to the highest available level

Explanation

An intercepted aircraft should follow the intercepting aircraft's instructions, attempt to establish radio communication, and notify the appropriate ATS unit. Standard intercept procedures are set out in Annex 2 and the PANS.

Question 19Air law: legislation and rules of the air

In the event of a radio communication failure in IMC, what is the pilot's primary obligation before continuing flight?

  1. Continue in accordance with the applicable communication failure procedures for the airspace Correct answer.
  2. Circle the last known position until contact is restored
  3. Descend below cloud to regain visual contact
  4. Land at the nearest aerodrome immediately regardless of conditions

Explanation

Annex 2 sets out communication failure procedures that vary with the airspace and meteorological conditions. The pilot follows those procedures rather than improvising a descent or immediate landing.

Question 20Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the meaning of the term "ceiling" in aviation meteorology as used in the rules?

  1. The height of the lowest cloud base regardless of coverage
  2. The height above ground of the lowest layer of cloud covering more than half the sky Correct answer.
  3. The top of the troposphere
  4. The highest cloud top reported

Explanation

The ceiling is the height above ground of the lowest layer of cloud that is broken or overcast, i.e. covering more than half the sky. A few or scattered cloud does not constitute a ceiling.

Question 21Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Which of the following best describes "controlled airspace"?

  1. Airspace reserved exclusively for military aircraft
  2. Airspace in which all flights must be IFR
  3. Airspace in which no ATC clearance is required
  4. Airspace of defined dimensions within which ATC service is provided to IFR and, where specified, VFR flights Correct answer.

Explanation

Controlled airspace is airspace of defined dimensions within which air traffic control service is provided in accordance with the airspace classification. VFR flights may be permitted in some classes of controlled airspace.

Question 22Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the standard minimum flight visibility for VFR flight at or above 3 050 m (10 000 ft) AMSL in Class C airspace?

  1. 3 km
  2. 8 km Correct answer.
  3. 5 km
  4. 1.5 km

Explanation

In Class C airspace at or above 3 050 m AMSL, VFR flight requires a flight visibility of at least 8 km and a distance from cloud of 1 500 m horizontally and 300 m vertically. Below that level the minimum visibility is 5 km.

Question 23Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the purpose of the 1 500 m horizontal and 300 m vertical cloud clearance requirement for VFR flight in controlled airspace?

  1. To allow time and space for see-and-avoid separation from IFR traffic Correct answer.
  2. To ensure the aircraft remains visible to radar
  3. To satisfy noise-abatement requirements
  4. To guarantee a visual approach to the destination

Explanation

Cloud clearance minima provide the pilot with sufficient time and space to see and avoid other traffic operating under IFR in the same airspace. They are not related to radar visibility or noise.

Question 24Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Which of the following is required before an aircraft may be operated in accordance with instrument flight rules in controlled airspace?

  1. A formation flight authorisation
  2. An ATC clearance Correct answer.
  3. A noise certificate
  4. A visual approach clearance

Explanation

IFR flights in controlled airspace require an ATC clearance before entering or operating within that airspace. The clearance provides separation from other traffic.

Question 25Air law: legislation and rules of the air

A pilot is unsure whether a clearance has been issued. What is the correct course of action?

  1. Squawk 7600 and continue
  2. Proceed on the assumption that clearance was given
  3. Proceed only if no other traffic is visible
  4. Request clarification from ATC before proceeding Correct answer.

Explanation

If a pilot is in doubt about a clearance, the pilot must request clarification or confirmation from ATC before acting. Assuming a clearance exists is unsafe and contrary to good airmanship.

Question 26Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Which annex to the Convention on International Civil Aviation contains the International Standards and Recommended Practices for Rules of the Air?

  1. Annex 11
  2. Annex 6
  3. Annex 2 Correct answer.
  4. Annex 1

Explanation

Annex 2 to the Chicago Convention is titled 'Rules of the Air' and sets out the general standards governing flight, signals and interception. Annex 6 covers operation of aircraft and Annex 11 covers air traffic services. Annex 1 concerns personnel licensing.

Question 27Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Under the Convention on International Civil Aviation, what is the status of a Standard adopted by the Council?

  1. It is advisory guidance only with no binding effect
  2. It becomes law only after unanimous ratification by all States
  3. It is binding on contracting States unless they notify a difference Correct answer.
  4. It applies only to aircraft engaged in commercial transport

Explanation

Standards are binding on contracting States, which must notify ICAO of any difference between their national practice and the Standard. Recommended practices, by contrast, are desirable but not mandatory.

Question 28Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft is taxiing on an aerodrome and a person driving a vehicle on the manoeuvring area is in its path. Who has the right of way?

  1. The aircraft Correct answer.
  2. The vehicle
  3. The vehicle if it is an emergency vehicle
  4. Whichever is travelling faster

Explanation

Aircraft on the manoeuvring area have right of way over vehicles and pedestrians, and vehicles must give way to aircraft. Emergency vehicles responding to an emergency are a specific exception dealt with by local procedures, but the general rule favours the aircraft.

Question 29Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft is landing and another aircraft is operating on the ground ahead of it. Which has the right of way?

  1. The aircraft on the ground
  2. The aircraft with the higher category
  3. Neither; both must stop
  4. The aircraft in flight Correct answer.

Explanation

The rules give right of way to aircraft in flight over aircraft on the ground, and to landing aircraft over those manoeuvring on the surface. The aircraft on the ground must keep clear.

Question 30Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Two aircraft of different categories are converging at approximately the same level. Which aircraft has the right of way?

  1. The aircraft on the left
  2. The aircraft with the higher category Correct answer.
  3. The faster aircraft
  4. The aircraft on the right

Explanation

When aircraft of different categories converge, the aircraft of the higher category has right of way, for example an aeroplane over a glider or an aircraft over a vehicle. Between aircraft of the same category, the aircraft on the right has right of way.

Question 31Air law: legislation and rules of the air

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a clearance issued by air traffic control?

  1. An instruction that removes the pilot's responsibility for separation
  2. Advice that may be disregarded at the pilot's discretion
  3. A guarantee that no other traffic will be encountered
  4. Authority for an aircraft to proceed under specified conditions Correct answer.

Explanation

A clearance is an authorisation for an aircraft to proceed under conditions specified by ATC. It does not relieve the pilot in command of responsibility for the safety of the flight or for collision avoidance.

Question 32Air law: legislation and rules of the air

A pilot wishes to change the route contained in an ATC clearance. What is the correct action?

  1. Follow the new route if it is shorter than the cleared route
  2. Advise ATC and obtain an amended clearance before deviating Correct answer.
  3. Deviate only if the change is required for weather avoidance
  4. Deviate immediately and inform ATC afterwards

Explanation

The pilot must request and obtain an amended clearance before making a route change. The only general exception is an emergency or a situation requiring immediate action for safety, in which case ATC is informed as soon as practicable.

Question 33Air law: legislation and rules of the air

When may an aircraft be flown in the vicinity of an aerodrome at a height below the minimum specified for low flying?

  1. When taking off or landing in accordance with established procedures Correct answer.
  2. When the pilot holds an instrument rating
  3. When the flight is conducted in Class G airspace
  4. When the aircraft is above 500 ft above the highest obstacle

Explanation

Low flying is permitted for take-off, approach and landing in accordance with procedures established by the competent authority. Other exceptions relate to safety of flight or operations authorised by the authority.

Question 34Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the minimum height above the highest obstacle, outside congested areas, at which a VFR flight may be conducted over open country?

  1. 300 m (1 000 ft)
  2. 150 m (500 ft) Correct answer.
  3. 600 m (2 000 ft)
  4. 1 000 m (3 300 ft)

Explanation

Except when taking off or landing, aircraft must not fly over congested areas below 300 m (1 000 ft) above the highest obstacle, or elsewhere below 150 m (500 ft) above the surface or obstacle. These minima protect persons and property on the ground.

Question 35Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the meaning of the term 'ATS route' as used in the rules of the air?

  1. A route used exclusively by military aircraft
  2. A path defined only by ground-based navigation aids
  3. A specified route established for channelling the flow of traffic Correct answer.
  4. Any track flown by an aircraft under radar vectors

Explanation

An ATS route is a specified route established for the purpose of channelling the flow of traffic for the provision of air traffic services. It may be defined by reference to navigation aids, waypoints or both.

Question 36Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What does the term 'controlled airspace' mean?

  1. Airspace of defined dimensions within which ATC service is provided to controlled flights Correct answer.
  2. Any airspace above 3 000 m regardless of service provided
  3. Airspace that is closed to all VFR traffic at all times
  4. Airspace in which all aircraft must carry a transponder

Explanation

Controlled airspace is airspace of defined dimensions within which an air traffic control service is provided to controlled flights. It comes in Classes A to E. VFR may be permitted in some classes of controlled airspace.

Question 37Air law: legislation and rules of the air

In which class of airspace are all flights subject to an ATC clearance and separated from each other?

  1. Class G
  2. Class C
  3. Class A Correct answer.
  4. Class E

Explanation

Class A airspace is for IFR flights only, all of which are separated from one another and require a clearance. Class C separates IFR from IFR and from VFR, while VFR flights are not separated from each other. Class G is uncontrolled.

Question 38Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the purpose of a flight plan filed with an air traffic services unit?

  1. To register the aircraft with the State of departure
  2. To satisfy insurance requirements for the aircraft
  3. To obtain a guarantee that the flight will not be delayed
  4. To provide advance notice of the intended flight for ATS planning and alerting Correct answer.

Explanation

A flight plan supplies ATS with information about the intended flight so that services such as alerting and search and rescue can be initiated if needed. It also supports coordination of traffic.

Question 39Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft has filed a flight plan and will be delayed by more than 30 minutes beyond the estimated time of departure. What action is required?

  1. Cancel the flight plan and refile after departure
  2. Amend the flight plan or file a new one before departure Correct answer.
  3. No action is needed because the plan remains valid
  4. Depart without any notification and activate in the air

Explanation

If a flight is delayed beyond the time limit set by the authority, which is commonly 30 minutes, the flight plan must be amended or a new one filed. Otherwise the plan may be cancelled and the aircraft not expected.

Question 40Air law: legislation and rules of the air

A controlled flight is required to report its position to ATS. Which of the following is a standard position report element?

  1. Aircraft identification and position Correct answer.
  2. Aircraft colour scheme
  3. Name of the pilot in command
  4. Number of persons on the previous flight

Explanation

A standard position report includes aircraft identification, position, time, flight level or altitude, and the next position and estimated time. Items such as colour scheme or crew names are not part of it.

Question 41Air law: legislation and rules of the air

A pilot of a controlled flight becomes aware that the aircraft's navigation equipment has failed and the flight can no longer be conducted as cleared. What should the pilot do?

  1. Squawk 7700 and land at the nearest aerodrome regardless of instructions
  2. Continue on the cleared route without informing ATC
  3. Wait until the next routine position report to mention it
  4. Notify ATC promptly and request an amended clearance Correct answer.

Explanation

The pilot must inform ATC as soon as practicable of any inability to comply with the clearance so that separation can be re-planned. ATC can then issue an amended clearance appropriate to the aircraft's capabilities.

Question 42Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the purpose of the semi-circular rule for cruising levels?

  1. To ensure aircraft fly only above 3 000 m
  2. To provide vertical separation between aircraft on opposing tracks Correct answer.
  3. To standardise the fuel required for a flight
  4. To keep aircraft clear of controlled airspace

Explanation

Cruising levels are allocated according to magnetic track so that aircraft flying in opposite directions are separated vertically. Tracks from 000 to 179 degrees use one set of levels and those from 180 to 359 degrees use another.

Question 43Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An IFR flight is planned on a magnetic track of 090 degrees. Which cruising level is appropriate under the semi-circular rule in airspace where the table applies?

  1. FL 290 Correct answer.
  2. FL 260
  3. FL 280
  4. FL 270

Explanation

Tracks from 000 to 179 degrees use odd flight levels, so a track of 090 degrees calls for an odd level such as FL 290. Even levels are used for tracks from 180 to 359 degrees.

Question 44Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What does a steady green light directed at an aircraft in flight signify?

  1. Cleared to taxi
  2. Return to starting point
  3. Cleared to land Correct answer.
  4. Give way and continue circling

Explanation

A steady green light directed at an aircraft in flight means it is cleared to land. On the ground, the same signal means cleared for take-off. Other colours convey different instructions.

Question 45Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft on the ground receives a flashing green light from the tower. What does it mean?

  1. Stop
  2. Return to starting point
  3. Cleared for take-off
  4. Cleared to taxi Correct answer.

Explanation

A flashing green light directed at an aircraft on the ground means it is cleared to taxi. A steady green light on the ground means cleared for take-off.

Question 46Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the meaning of a series of red flashes directed at an aircraft in flight?

  1. Give way and continue circling Correct answer.
  2. Airport unsafe, do not land
  3. Cleared to land
  4. Land and proceed to apron

Explanation

Red flashes directed at an aircraft in flight mean the aircraft must give way to other traffic and continue circling. A series of red flashes on the ground means taxi clear of the landing area.

Question 47Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the meaning of a white pyrotechnic signal fired from the ground?

  1. Permission to land granted
  2. Fire on board the aircraft
  3. Return to the aerodrome and await instructions Correct answer.
  4. Aerodrome closed permanently

Explanation

A white pyrotechnic fired from the ground indicates to an aircraft that it should return to the aerodrome and await instructions. Red pyrotechnics from the ground warn against landing.

Question 48Air law: legislation and rules of the air

An aircraft is being intercepted and the intercepting aircraft rocks its wings. What is the intercepted aircraft expected to do?

  1. Descend immediately and land
  2. Acknowledge by rocking its wings and follow the intercepting aircraft Correct answer.
  3. Increase speed and turn away
  4. Turn off all lights

Explanation

Rocking the wings from the intercepting aircraft means 'follow me'. The intercepted aircraft should acknowledge, typically by rocking its wings, and then follow the intercepting aircraft as instructed.

Question 49Air law: legislation and rules of the air

During an interception, the intercepted aircraft is instructed to land. What should the pilot do if able to comply?

  1. Lower the landing gear and follow the intercepting aircraft to the aerodrome Correct answer.
  2. Continue on the original route and ignore the instruction
  3. Climb to the highest available level
  4. Circle the aerodrome until fuel is low

Explanation

Lowering the landing gear signals that the intercepted aircraft intends to comply with the instruction to land. The pilot then follows the intercepting aircraft to the designated aerodrome.

Question 50Air law: legislation and rules of the air

What is the meaning of the abbreviation 'FIR' in air navigation?

  1. Final instrument route
  2. Flight instrument rating
  3. Flight information region Correct answer.
  4. Fixed interception radius

Explanation

A flight information region is an airspace of defined dimensions within which flight information service and alerting service are provided. It is the basic building block of regional airspace organisation.