✈️Principles of Flight
Covers subsonic and transonic aerodynamics, lift and drag theory, stability and control, high-speed flight, propellers, and limitations. The core aerodynamics subject that explains why aircraft fly.
Exam Details
44
Questions
60 min
Time Limit
75%
Pass Mark
Approximately 1.4 minutes per question · You need 33 correct answers to pass
Topics Covered
Subsonic aerodynamics: Bernoulli, lift equation, and angle of attack
Drag: parasite, induced, total drag curve, and drag reduction
Stalling: critical angle, stall speed factors, and stall warning
Static and dynamic stability: longitudinal, lateral, and directional
Flight controls: ailerons, elevator, rudder, and trim
High-speed aerodynamics: Mach number, shock waves, and critical Mach
Propeller theory: blade angle, advance ratio, and constant speed units
Load factor, manoeuvre envelope, and gust envelope
Study Tips for 080 Principles of Flight
Know the lift equation (L = CL x 0.5 x rho x V^2 x S) and how each variable affects lift — tested extensively.
Understand the total drag curve and where minimum drag speed occurs — it is the basis for best range speed.
Master the stall speed factors: weight, load factor, bank angle, CG position, and configuration.
Learn Dutch roll, spiral instability, and phugoid — know which axis each affects and how they are damped.
For high-speed flight, understand Mcrit, drag divergence Mach, and the purpose of swept wings and vortex generators.
Practice Principles of Flight Questions Now
Test your knowledge of 080 Principles of Flight with our EASA-style practice questions. Timed exams, detailed explanations, and performance tracking.
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Full EASA ATPL Question Bank — All 13 Subjects
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many questions are on the EASA 080 Principles of Flight exam?
The EASA 080 Principles of Flight exam consists of 44 multiple-choice questions. You have 60 minutes to complete the exam, which gives you approximately 1.4 minutes per question.
What is the pass mark for EASA Principles of Flight?
You need to score at least 75% to pass the EASA 080 Principles of Flight exam. That means you need 33 correct answers out of 44 questions. There is no negative marking — unanswered or incorrect questions score zero.
How hard is the EASA Principles of Flight exam?
EASA 080 Principles of Flight is rated as advanced difficulty. This is one of the more challenging ATPL subjects, requiring significant study time and strong conceptual understanding. The key topics to master include Subsonic aerodynamics: Bernoulli, lift equation, and angle of attack, Drag: parasite, induced, total drag curve, and drag reduction, Stalling: critical angle, stall speed factors, and stall warning.
How should I study for EASA 080 Principles of Flight?
Start with a structured textbook (Bristol Ground School or Oxford ATPL series) covering all 8 main topics. Then move to practice questions to identify weak areas. Know the lift equation (L = CL x 0.5 x rho x V^2 x S) and how each variable affects lift — tested extensively. Aim to complete at least 500 practice questions before sitting the real exam.
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