PSTAR Practice Test — Question Explanations
Transport Canada PSTAR (Student Pilot Permit / Pre-Solo Written) practice questions covering Canadian Aviation Regulations, airspace, VFR weather minima, radio procedures, and circuit operations.
Start free PSTAR Practice Test practice
No signup required · 40 free questions per day
Try the timed mock exam
Real exam format · auto-scored · category breakdown
Pre-Solo Test of Air Regulations (PSTAR) at a glance
Administered by Transport Canada · PSTAR Practice Test
- Authority
- Transport Canada
- Questions
- 50
- Pass mark
- 90%
- Time limit
- 60 min
Independent practice — not affiliated with Transport Canada. Always confirm current requirements with the official authority.
Within a control zone, what is the minimum flight visibility for VFR flight by day?
VFR by day within a control zone requires a minimum flight visibility of 3 SM (and 500 ft below / 2,000 ft horizontally from cloud).
Scenario 67: What is the minimum age requirement for a person to be eligible to hold a Student Pilot Permit?
According to Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), a person must be at least 14 years old to be issued a Student Pilot Permit. This allows individuals to begin
Scenario 1: What is the minimum age requirement for a person to be eligible to hold a Student Pilot Permit?
According to Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), a person must be at least 14 years old to be issued a Student Pilot Permit. This allows individuals to begin
Scenario 68: Before conducting a flight, a pilot must obtain and become familiar with all available informa…
Thorough pre-flight planning is crucial. This includes checking weather, NOTAMs, fuel requirements, alternate airports, and any other pertinent information to e
Scenario 2: Before conducting a flight, a pilot must obtain and become familiar with all available informat…
Thorough pre-flight planning is crucial. This includes checking weather, NOTAMs, fuel requirements, alternate airports, and any other pertinent information to e
Scenario 69: Two-way radio communication and ATC clearance are required to enter which class of Canadian co…
Class C airspace requires both two-way radio communication and an ATC clearance prior to entry. The correct answer is "Class C". This capacity-fill scenario 69
Scenario 3: Two-way radio communication and ATC clearance are required to enter which class of Canadian con…
Class C airspace requires both two-way radio communication and an ATC clearance prior to entry. The correct answer is "Class C". This capacity-fill scenario 3 r
Scenario 70: What specific transponder code indicates an aircraft has suffered a radio failure?
Transponder code 7600 is reserved for indicating a radio failure. This alerts ATC to the situation, allowing them to provide appropriate assistance and instruct
Scenario 4: What specific transponder code indicates an aircraft has suffered a radio failure?
Transponder code 7600 is reserved for indicating a radio failure. This alerts ATC to the situation, allowing them to provide appropriate assistance and instruct
Scenario 71: Within a control zone, what is the minimum flight visibility for VFR flight by day?
VFR by day within a control zone requires a minimum flight visibility of 3 SM (and 500 ft below / 2,000 ft horizontally from cloud). The correct answer is "3 SM
Scenario 5: Within a control zone, what is the minimum flight visibility for VFR flight by day?
VFR by day within a control zone requires a minimum flight visibility of 3 SM (and 500 ft below / 2,000 ft horizontally from cloud). The correct answer is "3 SM
Scenario 72: When operating in the vicinity of an aerodrome, what is the maximum indicated airspeed for an …
CARs stipulate a maximum indicated airspeed of 200 knots below 3000 feet AGL within 10 nautical miles of a controlled aerodrome. This is to help reduce congesti
Scenario 6: When operating in the vicinity of an aerodrome, what is the maximum indicated airspeed for an a…
CARs stipulate a maximum indicated airspeed of 200 knots below 3000 feet AGL within 10 nautical miles of a controlled aerodrome. This is to help reduce congesti
Scenario 73: Which transponder code indicates a general emergency?
7700 = general emergency, 7600 = radio failure, 7500 = hijack, 1200 = VFR (US, not Canada — Canadian VFR varies). The correct answer is "7700". This capacity-fi
Scenario 7: Which transponder code indicates a general emergency?
7700 = general emergency, 7600 = radio failure, 7500 = hijack, 1200 = VFR (US, not Canada — Canadian VFR varies). The correct answer is "7700". This capacity-fi
Scenario 74: If you experience a complete radio failure under VFR, the transponder code to set is:
7600 indicates lost two-way radio communications. The correct answer is "7600". This capacity-fill scenario 74 reinforces the same competency for the pstar bank
Scenario 8: If you experience a complete radio failure under VFR, the transponder code to set is:
7600 indicates lost two-way radio communications. The correct answer is "7600". This capacity-fill scenario 8 reinforces the same competency for the pstar bank
Scenario 75: What is the primary purpose of a 'UNICOM' fréquence at an uncontrolled airport?
UNICOM frequencies are used at uncontrolled airports to broadcast and receive advisory information from ground stations (e.g., fuel availability, wind indicatio
Scenario 9: What is the primary purpose of a 'UNICOM' fréquence at an uncontrolled airport?
UNICOM frequencies are used at uncontrolled airports to broadcast and receive advisory information from ground stations (e.g., fuel availability, wind indicatio
Scenario 10: A pilot receives a flashing red light signal from the control tower while taxiing. What does t…
A flashing red light signal from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground means 'Stop, aircraft is unsafe' or 'Clear the taxiway/runway immediately'. This
Scenario 76: A pilot receives a flashing red light signal from the control tower while taxiing. What does t…
A flashing red light signal from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground means 'Stop, aircraft is unsafe' or 'Clear the taxiway/runway immediately'. This
Scenario 11: When flying VFR cruising at more than 3,000 ft AGL on a magnetic track of 180° to 359°, you sh…
Cruising altitude rule (VFR > 3,000 ft AGL): tracks 000-179° = odd thousands +500 ft; tracks 180-359° = even thousands +500 ft. The correct answer is "Even thou
Scenario 77: When flying VFR cruising at more than 3,000 ft AGL on a magnetic track of 180° to 359°, you sh…
Cruising altitude rule (VFR > 3,000 ft AGL): tracks 000-179° = odd thousands +500 ft; tracks 180-359° = even thousands +500 ft. The correct answer is "Even thou
Scenario 12: Two aircraft of the same category are converging at approximately the same altitude. Which one…
When converging at the same altitude, the aircraft on the right has the right of way. The correct answer is "The aircraft on the right". This capacity-fill scen
Scenario 78: Two aircraft of the same category are converging at approximately the same altitude. Which one…
When converging at the same altitude, the aircraft on the right has the right of way. The correct answer is "The aircraft on the right". This capacity-fill scen
Scenario 13: What is the minimum VFR flight visibility requirement in uncontrolled airspace (Class G) below…
For VFR flights in Class G airspace below 1,000 feet AGL during the day, the minimum flight visibility requirement is 2 statute miles. This ensures pilots have
Scenario 79: What is the minimum VFR flight visibility requirement in uncontrolled airspace (Class G) below…
For VFR flights in Class G airspace below 1,000 feet AGL during the day, the minimum flight visibility requirement is 2 statute miles. This ensures pilots have
Scenario 14: Among the following, which aircraft has right of way over all others?
Right-of-way order (lowest priority first): power-driven < airship < glider < balloon. A balloon has right of way over all others. The correct answer is "Balloo
Scenario 80: Among the following, which aircraft has right of way over all others?
Right-of-way order (lowest priority first): power-driven < airship < glider < balloon. A balloon has right of way over all others. The correct answer is "Balloo
Scenario 15: What is the meaning of a 'STAR' in aviation terminology?
STAR stands for Standard Terminal Arrival Route. These are pre-defined routes that air traffic control uses to bring aircraft from the en-route phase of flight
Scenario 81: What is the meaning of a 'STAR' in aviation terminology?
STAR stands for Standard Terminal Arrival Route. These are pre-defined routes that air traffic control uses to bring aircraft from the en-route phase of flight
Scenario 16: Under CARs, a pilot must ensure that passengers' safety belts are fastened:
CARs require seat belts to be fastened during movement on the surface, take-off, landing, and at any other time the pilot directs. The correct answer is "During
Scenario 82: Under CARs, a pilot must ensure that passengers' safety belts are fastened:
CARs require seat belts to be fastened during movement on the surface, take-off, landing, and at any other time the pilot directs. The correct answer is "During
Scenario 17: Which of the following is an example of an aerodrome traffic circuit instruction that may be i…
An instruction like "Join right downwind for runway 27" is a direct instruction for entering and flying a specific part of the aerodrome traffic circuit. The ot
Scenario 83: Which of the following is an example of an aerodrome traffic circuit instruction that may be i…
An instruction like "Join right downwind for runway 27" is a direct instruction for entering and flying a specific part of the aerodrome traffic circuit. The ot
Scenario 18: For a Student Pilot Permit, a Category 1, 3 or 4 medical certificate is required. The certific…
Pilots must carry a valid medical certificate (and licence/permit) while exercising the privileges of the permit, including solo flight. The correct answer is "
Scenario 84: For a Student Pilot Permit, a Category 1, 3 or 4 medical certificate is required. The certific…
Pilots must carry a valid medical certificate (and licence/permit) while exercising the privileges of the permit, including solo flight. The correct answer is "
Scenario 19: When flying VFR, what is the minimum distance required from clouds when operating in Class C a…
In Class C airspace below 10,000 feet ASL, VFR aircraft must maintain a minimum distance of 1,000 feet vertically and 1 statute mile horizontally from clouds. T
Scenario 20: What is the emergency transponder code for an aircraft experiencing an unlawful interference (…
Transponder code 7500 is specifically designated for unlawful interference (hijack) situations. This allows ATC to quickly identify the aircraft and alert appro
Scenario 21: When may a student pilot fly solo?
A student pilot may fly solo only when authorized by the holder of a flight instructor rating (Class 1 or 2) on the appropriate aircraft category. The correct a
Scenario 22: Under what condition may a student pilot operate an aircraft in solo flight?
A student pilot may operate an aircraft in solo flight only after passing the PSTAR exam and having their student pilot permit endorsed by a flight instructor.
Scenario 23: Unless otherwise specified, the standard traffic circuit at an uncontrolled aerodrome in Canad…
Standard circuits are left-hand unless published otherwise. The correct answer is "Left-hand". This capacity-fill scenario 23 reinforces the same competency for
Scenario 24: What does a series of green flashes from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground mean?
A series of green flashes from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground means 'Cleared to taxi'. This is a standard light gun signal used when radio commu
Scenario 25: When must a pitot-static system inspection be carried out?
In Canada, the pitot-static system must be inspected and certified serviceable every 24 months for aircraft that will be flown under Instrument Flight Rules (IF
Scenario 26: Inbound to an uncontrolled aerodrome with a mandatory frequency (MF), an initial radio call sh…
Pilots must report on the MF at least 5 minutes before entering the MF area, then again as required by the MF procedures. The correct answer is "5 minutes befor
Scenario 27: When is an aircraft required to display navigation lights?
Aircraft are required to display navigation lights from sunset to sunrise, or at any time during the day when visibility is reduced below 2 statute miles. This
Scenario 28: When flying in Canada below 18,000 ft ASL, the altimeter should be set to:
Below 18,000 ft ASL, set the altimeter to the current altimeter setting of the nearest station along the route. At/above FL180, set 29.92. The correct answer is
Scenario 29: For a day VFR flight in an airplane, the minimum fuel reserve at the destination is enough to …
Day VFR airplane fuel reserve: 30 minutes at normal cruise. Night VFR / IFR airplane: 45 minutes. The correct answer is "30 minutes". This capacity-fill scenari
Scenario 30: What is the primary factor determining the direction of takeoff and landing at an aerodrome?
Aircraft always prefer to take off and land into the wind to minimize the ground roll and improve control, making the prevailing wind direction the primary fact
Scenario 31: Without supplemental oxygen, the risk of hypoxia in a healthy pilot generally begins to be sig…
Hypoxia risk becomes significant above ~10,000 ft; CARs require oxygen for flight crew after 30 minutes between 10,000-13,000 ft cabin altitude and at all times
Scenario 32: When flying VFR, what minimum altitude must be maintained over a built-up area?
Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) state that VFR aircraft must maintain a minimum altitude of 1,000 feet AGL over built-up areas. This rule is for safety and
Scenario 33: Under CARs, a crew member must not act as a flight crew member within how many hours of consum…
CARs require a minimum of 8 hours from 'bottle to throttle', and the crew member must not be impaired. The correct answer is "8 hours". This capacity-fill scena
Scenario 34: What does a rotating beacon at a controlled aerodrome signify during daylight hours?
During daylight hours, a rotating beacon at a controlled aerodrome indicates that the visibility or ceiling is below VFR weather minimums. This signals to pilot
Scenario 35: What is the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level in inches of mercury?
The standard atmospheric pressure at sea level is 29.92 inches of mercury (Hg) or 1013.25 millibars (mb). This value is used as a reference for altimeter settin
Scenario 36: When taking off behind a heavy jet that just departed from the same runway, the safest action …
Wait the recommended interval (typically ~2 minutes) and lift off before the heavy's rotation point, then climb above its flight path to avoid wake turbulence.
Scenario 37: VFR Over-The-Top (VFR OTT) flight requires the pilot to hold at minimum:
A pilot must hold at least a PPL plus a valid VFR OTT rating (or higher qualification such as instrument rating). The correct answer is "Private Pilot Licence w
Scenario 38: Before entering a Class D control zone, what action must a VFR pilot take?
Class D airspace is controlled airspace, and VFR pilots must establish two-way radio communication with and receive a clearance from ATC before entering. This e
Scenario 39: Class F airspace in Canada is defined as:
Class F is special-use airspace which may be advisory (CYA) or restricted (CYR/CYD), with specific entry rules. The correct answer is "Special use airspace such
Scenario 40: What is the recommended method for communicating at an uncontrolled aerodrome using an MF (man…
At an uncontrolled aerodrome with an MF, pilots must make regular position reports and state their intentions before entering, while in, and when departing the
Scenario 41: Which meteorological phenomenon is commonly associated with unstable air and often brings stro…
Cumulonimbus clouds (thunderstorm clouds) are indicative of highly unstable air, leading to significant vertical development, heavy precipitation, lightning, se
Scenario 42: On the ground, a steady green light signal from the tower means:
Steady green on the ground = cleared for takeoff (in flight = cleared to land). The correct answer is "Cleared for takeoff". This capacity-fill scenario 42 rein
Scenario 43: What is the maximum speed permitted for an aircraft operating below 10,000 feet ASL in Canadia…
In Canadian airspace, aircraft operating below 10,000 feet ASL are generally restricted to a maximum speed of 250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS). This regulati
Scenario 44: To convert from True Airspeed (TAS) to Indicated Airspeed (IAS) correctly, which atmospheric f…
True Airspeed is Indicated Airspeed corrected for instrument error, position error, compressibility, density (pressure altitude), and temperature. Pressure alti
Scenario 45: What is the recommended frequency for emergency communications in Canada, if other frequencies…
121.5 MHz is the international civilian aircraft emergency frequency. It should be used for distress and urgency communications when no other suitable frequency
Scenario 46: Which instrument uses the venturi effect to display the aircraft's speed relative to the air?
The Airspeed Indicator measures the dynamic pressure caused by the aircraft's movement through the air, which is sensed through the pitot tube and static port.
Scenario 47: What is the general term for the procedures and instructions for pilots operating at or near a…
Aerodrome traffic procedures are established to ensure the safe and orderly flow of air traffic at and around an aerodrome, especially in the circuit area durin
Scenario 48: When must a pilot submit a flight plan or flight itinerary?
A flight plan or flight itinerary must be filed before flights that transit uncontrolled airspace or when flying more than 25 nautical miles from the point of d
Scenario 49: What does a single yellow 'X' displayed on a runway indicate?
A single yellow or white 'X' (or series of 'X's) displayed on a runway signifies that the runway is permanently or temporarily closed to all aircraft operations
Scenario 50: In the event of an electrical failure at night, which lights would typically remain functional…
Navigation lights are often designed to operate from an independent battery source to ensure they remain functional in case of a main electrical system failure,
Scenario 51: What characteristic defines Class E airspace?
Class E airspace is controlled airspace, extending upwards from either the surface or a designated altitude, where ATC services are provided, but VFR traffic is
Scenario 52: When may a pilot deviate from a Canadian Aviation Regulation (CAR)?
A pilot may deviate from CARs to the extent necessary to meet an emergency situation that requires immediate action for the safety of persons or property. Howev
Scenario 53: What is the primary function of the altimeter?
The altimeter is an instrument that measures the absolute pressure of the ambient air and displays it as an altitude above a reference pressure level, typically
Scenario 54: Which of the following is NOT a required document to be carried on board an aircraft during a …
While critical for maintenance, the Aircraft Maintenance Schedule itself is not required to be carried on board during every flight. The Certificate of Airworth
Scenario 55: When flying over land, what is the minimum safe altitude a pilot can fly if not over a built-u…
Over land, when not over built-up areas, a pilot must maintain an altitude of at least 500 feet above the highest obstacle within a 500-foot radius of the aircr
Scenario 56: What is the purpose of a VASI (Visual Approach Slope Indicator) system?
A VASI (Visual Approach Slope Indicator) system uses light signals to provide pilots with visual information on their position relative to the ideal glide slope
Scenario 57: When an aircraft experiences an 'urgency' condition, which radio call should be used?
PAN PAN is the internationally recognized urgency signal, indicating that a station has an urgent situation concerning the safety of an aircraft or device, or o
Scenario 58: What effect does increased air density have on aircraft performance?
Increased air density (due to lower altitude, lower temperature, or higher pressure) means there are more air molecules available for the engine to ingest and f
Scenario 59: What is the meaning of the term 'ASL' in aviation weather reporting and altimetry?
ASL stands for 'Above Sea Level', indicating altitude referenced to the mean sea level. This is a common reference for reporting altitudes in meteorology and fl
Scenario 60: Why is it important to perform an engine run-up check before takeoff?
The engine run-up check allows the pilot to test the ignition system, throttle response, propeller controls, and ensure all engine parameters are within normal
Scenario 61: What is the typical altimeter setting source for VFR flights in Canada?
VFR pilots in Canada typically obtain their altimeter settings from Air Traffic Control (ATC) or a Flight Service Station (FSS) at or near their location or des
Scenario 62: What is the purpose of a NOTAM?
A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) provides timely and essential information on temporary or time-sensitive changes that are crucial for safe flight operations. These c
Scenario 63: When approaching an uncontrolled aerodrome for landing, what is the standard circuit direction?
The standard circuit direction for an uncontrolled aerodrome, unless otherwise specified, is a left-hand circuit. This is a common safety standard to ensure pre
Scenario 64: What is the universally recognized distress signal in radiotelephony?
MAYDAY is the internationally recognized urgency signal indicating that an aircraft or vessel is in grave and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance.
Scenario 65: Within what airspace class are VFR flights generally permitted without prior clearance from Ai…
Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace where VFR flights are generally permitted without specific ATC clearance. While still subject to rules, it offers the
Scenario 66: What does a stationary steady green light signal from Air Traffic Control to an aircraft in fl…
A steady green light signal from ATC to an aircraft in flight indicates 'Cleared to land'. This is a standard light gun signal used when radio communication is
What is the minimum age requirement for a person to be eligible to hold a Student Pilot Permit?
According to Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs), a person must be at least 14 years old to be issued a Student Pilot Permit. This allows individuals to begin
Among the following, which aircraft has right of way over all others?
Right-of-way order (lowest priority first): power-driven < airship < glider < balloon. A balloon has right of way over all others.
What is the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level in inches of mercury?
The standard atmospheric pressure at sea level is 29.92 inches of mercury (Hg) or 1013.25 millibars (mb). This value is used as a reference for altimeter settin
What is the universally recognized distress signal in radiotelephony?
MAYDAY is the internationally recognized urgency signal indicating that an aircraft or vessel is in grave and imminent danger and requires immediate assistance.
Within what airspace class are VFR flights generally permitted without prior clearance from Air Traffic Con…
Class G airspace is uncontrolled airspace where VFR flights are generally permitted without specific ATC clearance. While still subject to rules, it offers the
Before conducting a flight, a pilot must obtain and become familiar with all available information appropri…
Thorough pre-flight planning is crucial. This includes checking weather, NOTAMs, fuel requirements, alternate airports, and any other pertinent information to e
Two-way radio communication and ATC clearance are required to enter which class of Canadian controlled airs…
Class C airspace requires both two-way radio communication and an ATC clearance prior to entry.
What specific transponder code indicates an aircraft has suffered a radio failure?
Transponder code 7600 is reserved for indicating a radio failure. This alerts ATC to the situation, allowing them to provide appropriate assistance and instruct
When operating in the vicinity of an aerodrome, what is the maximum indicated airspeed for an aircraft belo…
CARs stipulate a maximum indicated airspeed of 200 knots below 3000 feet AGL within 10 nautical miles of a controlled aerodrome. This is to help reduce congesti
Which transponder code indicates a general emergency?
7700 = general emergency, 7600 = radio failure, 7500 = hijack, 1200 = VFR (US, not Canada — Canadian VFR varies).
If you experience a complete radio failure under VFR, the transponder code to set is:
7600 indicates lost two-way radio communications.
What is the primary purpose of a 'UNICOM' fréquence at an uncontrolled airport?
UNICOM frequencies are used at uncontrolled airports to broadcast and receive advisory information from ground stations (e.g., fuel availability, wind indicatio
A pilot receives a flashing red light signal from the control tower while taxiing. What does this mean?
A flashing red light signal from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground means 'Stop, aircraft is unsafe' or 'Clear the taxiway/runway immediately'. This
When flying VFR cruising at more than 3,000 ft AGL on a magnetic track of 180° to 359°, you should fly at:
Cruising altitude rule (VFR > 3,000 ft AGL): tracks 000-179° = odd thousands +500 ft; tracks 180-359° = even thousands +500 ft.
Two aircraft of the same category are converging at approximately the same altitude. Which one has the righ…
When converging at the same altitude, the aircraft on the right has the right of way.
What is the minimum VFR flight visibility requirement in uncontrolled airspace (Class G) below 1,000 feet A…
For VFR flights in Class G airspace below 1,000 feet AGL during the day, the minimum flight visibility requirement is 2 statute miles. This ensures pilots have
What is the meaning of a 'STAR' in aviation terminology?
STAR stands for Standard Terminal Arrival Route. These are pre-defined routes that air traffic control uses to bring aircraft from the en-route phase of flight
Under CARs, a pilot must ensure that passengers' safety belts are fastened:
CARs require seat belts to be fastened during movement on the surface, take-off, landing, and at any other time the pilot directs.
Which of the following is an example of an aerodrome traffic circuit instruction that may be issued by ATC?
An instruction like "Join right downwind for runway 27" is a direct instruction for entering and flying a specific part of the aerodrome traffic circuit. The ot
For a Student Pilot Permit, a Category 1, 3 or 4 medical certificate is required. The certificate must be:
Pilots must carry a valid medical certificate (and licence/permit) while exercising the privileges of the permit, including solo flight.
When flying VFR, what is the minimum distance required from clouds when operating in Class C airspace below…
In Class C airspace below 10,000 feet ASL, VFR aircraft must maintain a minimum distance of 1,000 feet vertically and 1 statute mile horizontally from clouds. T
What is the emergency transponder code for an aircraft experiencing an unlawful interference (hijack)?
Transponder code 7500 is specifically designated for unlawful interference (hijack) situations. This allows ATC to quickly identify the aircraft and alert appro
When may a student pilot fly solo?
A student pilot may fly solo only when authorized by the holder of a flight instructor rating (Class 1 or 2) on the appropriate aircraft category.
Under what condition may a student pilot operate an aircraft in solo flight?
A student pilot may operate an aircraft in solo flight only after passing the PSTAR exam and having their student pilot permit endorsed by a flight instructor.
Unless otherwise specified, the standard traffic circuit at an uncontrolled aerodrome in Canada is:
Standard circuits are left-hand unless published otherwise.
What does a series of green flashes from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground mean?
A series of green flashes from the control tower to an aircraft on the ground means 'Cleared to taxi'. This is a standard light gun signal used when radio commu
When must a pitot-static system inspection be carried out?
In Canada, the pitot-static system must be inspected and certified serviceable every 24 months for aircraft that will be flown under Instrument Flight Rules (IF
Inbound to an uncontrolled aerodrome with a mandatory frequency (MF), an initial radio call should be made …
Pilots must report on the MF at least 5 minutes before entering the MF area, then again as required by the MF procedures.
When is an aircraft required to display navigation lights?
Aircraft are required to display navigation lights from sunset to sunrise, or at any time during the day when visibility is reduced below 2 statute miles. This
When flying in Canada below 18,000 ft ASL, the altimeter should be set to:
Below 18,000 ft ASL, set the altimeter to the current altimeter setting of the nearest station along the route. At/above FL180, set 29.92.
For a day VFR flight in an airplane, the minimum fuel reserve at the destination is enough to fly at normal…
Day VFR airplane fuel reserve: 30 minutes at normal cruise. Night VFR / IFR airplane: 45 minutes.
What is the primary factor determining the direction of takeoff and landing at an aerodrome?
Aircraft always prefer to take off and land into the wind to minimize the ground roll and improve control, making the prevailing wind direction the primary fact
Without supplemental oxygen, the risk of hypoxia in a healthy pilot generally begins to be significant abov…
Hypoxia risk becomes significant above ~10,000 ft; CARs require oxygen for flight crew after 30 minutes between 10,000-13,000 ft cabin altitude and at all times
When flying VFR, what minimum altitude must be maintained over a built-up area?
Canadian Aviation Regulations (CARs) state that VFR aircraft must maintain a minimum altitude of 1,000 feet AGL over built-up areas. This rule is for safety and
Under CARs, a crew member must not act as a flight crew member within how many hours of consuming alcohol?
CARs require a minimum of 8 hours from 'bottle to throttle', and the crew member must not be impaired.
What does a rotating beacon at a controlled aerodrome signify during daylight hours?
During daylight hours, a rotating beacon at a controlled aerodrome indicates that the visibility or ceiling is below VFR weather minimums. This signals to pilot
When taking off behind a heavy jet that just departed from the same runway, the safest action is to:
Wait the recommended interval (typically ~2 minutes) and lift off before the heavy's rotation point, then climb above its flight path to avoid wake turbulence.
VFR Over-The-Top (VFR OTT) flight requires the pilot to hold at minimum:
A pilot must hold at least a PPL plus a valid VFR OTT rating (or higher qualification such as instrument rating).
Before entering a Class D control zone, what action must a VFR pilot take?
Class D airspace is controlled airspace, and VFR pilots must establish two-way radio communication with and receive a clearance from ATC before entering. This e
Class F airspace in Canada is defined as:
Class F is special-use airspace which may be advisory (CYA) or restricted (CYR/CYD), with specific entry rules.
What is the recommended method for communicating at an uncontrolled aerodrome using an MF (mandatory freque…
At an uncontrolled aerodrome with an MF, pilots must make regular position reports and state their intentions before entering, while in, and when departing the
Which meteorological phenomenon is commonly associated with unstable air and often brings strong winds, tur…
Cumulonimbus clouds (thunderstorm clouds) are indicative of highly unstable air, leading to significant vertical development, heavy precipitation, lightning, se
On the ground, a steady green light signal from the tower means:
Steady green on the ground = cleared for takeoff (in flight = cleared to land).
What is the maximum speed permitted for an aircraft operating below 10,000 feet ASL in Canadian airspace?
In Canadian airspace, aircraft operating below 10,000 feet ASL are generally restricted to a maximum speed of 250 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS). This regulati
To convert from True Airspeed (TAS) to Indicated Airspeed (IAS) correctly, which atmospheric factor is prim…
True Airspeed is Indicated Airspeed corrected for instrument error, position error, compressibility, density (pressure altitude), and temperature. Pressure alti
What is the recommended frequency for emergency communications in Canada, if other frequencies are unavaila…
121.5 MHz is the international civilian aircraft emergency frequency. It should be used for distress and urgency communications when no other suitable frequency
Which instrument uses the venturi effect to display the aircraft's speed relative to the air?
The Airspeed Indicator measures the dynamic pressure caused by the aircraft's movement through the air, which is sensed through the pitot tube and static port.
What is the general term for the procedures and instructions for pilots operating at or near an airport, es…
Aerodrome traffic procedures are established to ensure the safe and orderly flow of air traffic at and around an aerodrome, especially in the circuit area durin
When must a pilot submit a flight plan or flight itinerary?
A flight plan or flight itinerary must be filed before flights that transit uncontrolled airspace or when flying more than 25 nautical miles from the point of d
What does a single yellow 'X' displayed on a runway indicate?
A single yellow or white 'X' (or series of 'X's) displayed on a runway signifies that the runway is permanently or temporarily closed to all aircraft operations
In the event of an electrical failure at night, which lights would typically remain functional if they are …
Navigation lights are often designed to operate from an independent battery source to ensure they remain functional in case of a main electrical system failure,
What characteristic defines Class E airspace?
Class E airspace is controlled airspace, extending upwards from either the surface or a designated altitude, where ATC services are provided, but VFR traffic is
When may a pilot deviate from a Canadian Aviation Regulation (CAR)?
A pilot may deviate from CARs to the extent necessary to meet an emergency situation that requires immediate action for the safety of persons or property. Howev
What is the primary function of the altimeter?
The altimeter is an instrument that measures the absolute pressure of the ambient air and displays it as an altitude above a reference pressure level, typically
Which of the following is NOT a required document to be carried on board an aircraft during a flight?
While critical for maintenance, the Aircraft Maintenance Schedule itself is not required to be carried on board during every flight. The Certificate of Airworth
When flying over land, what is the minimum safe altitude a pilot can fly if not over a built-up area and as…
Over land, when not over built-up areas, a pilot must maintain an altitude of at least 500 feet above the highest obstacle within a 500-foot radius of the aircr
What is the purpose of a VASI (Visual Approach Slope Indicator) system?
A VASI (Visual Approach Slope Indicator) system uses light signals to provide pilots with visual information on their position relative to the ideal glide slope
When an aircraft experiences an 'urgency' condition, which radio call should be used?
PAN PAN is the internationally recognized urgency signal, indicating that a station has an urgent situation concerning the safety of an aircraft or device, or o
What effect does increased air density have on aircraft performance?
Increased air density (due to lower altitude, lower temperature, or higher pressure) means there are more air molecules available for the engine to ingest and f
What is the meaning of the term 'ASL' in aviation weather reporting and altimetry?
ASL stands for 'Above Sea Level', indicating altitude referenced to the mean sea level. This is a common reference for reporting altitudes in meteorology and fl
Why is it important to perform an engine run-up check before takeoff?
The engine run-up check allows the pilot to test the ignition system, throttle response, propeller controls, and ensure all engine parameters are within normal
What is the typical altimeter setting source for VFR flights in Canada?
VFR pilots in Canada typically obtain their altimeter settings from Air Traffic Control (ATC) or a Flight Service Station (FSS) at or near their location or des
What is the purpose of a NOTAM?
A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) provides timely and essential information on temporary or time-sensitive changes that are crucial for safe flight operations. These c
When approaching an uncontrolled aerodrome for landing, what is the standard circuit direction?
The standard circuit direction for an uncontrolled aerodrome, unless otherwise specified, is a left-hand circuit. This is a common safety standard to ensure pre
What does a stationary steady green light signal from Air Traffic Control to an aircraft in flight mean?
A steady green light signal from ATC to an aircraft in flight indicates 'Cleared to land'. This is a standard light gun signal used when radio communication is
Explore the PSTAR Practice Test cluster
New to PSTAR Practice Test? Start with the free practice bank to learn the question format, then use the study guides to fill knowledge gaps, and finish with the timed mock exam to confirm you are ready. Browse all exams →
Related courses
Other Canadian certifications candidates often prepare for alongside this one.