AMP - Aviation Maintenance Technician Powerplant Practice Exam

What is an "empennage" in an airplane?

1. The engine compartment at the front of an aircraft

2. The tail section of an aircraft, including stabilizers and control surfaces

3. The landing gear system

4. The cabin area for passengers

The correct answer is: The tail section of an aircraft, including stabilizers and control surfaces

The term "empennage" refers specifically to the tail section of an aircraft, which includes the horizontal stabilizer, vertical stabilizer, and the control surfaces such as the elevators and rudder. This section plays a critical role in stabilizing the aircraft during flight and ensuring its maneuverability. The horizontal stabilizer helps to maintain the aircraft's pitch, while the vertical stabilizer helps with yaw stability. The control surfaces within the empennage allow the pilot to affect the aircraft's orientation and direction. Understanding the function and structure of the empennage is essential for maintenance technicians, as it is vital for the aircraft's overall aerodynamic performance and safety. Other options describe unrelated aircraft components. The engine compartment is separate from the empennage, the landing gear is a completely different system that supports the aircraft during takeoff and landing, and the cabin area is where passengers are located, which is not connected to the aircraft's tail or stability features.