Which flight control surface(s) are locked with the gust lock?

Study for the DFW Instructors 300/350 Test. Experience an assortment of multiple-choice questions, complete with helpful hints and detailed explanations. Prepare thoroughly for success!

The correct response indicates that the gust lock is designed to specifically secure the ailerons only. The primary purpose of a gust lock is to prevent the ailerons from moving due to wind turbulence when the aircraft is parked. This is particularly important in preventing potential damage to the flight control surfaces and ensuring that they remain in a fixed position, mitigating the risk of unwanted movement caused by gusty conditions.

In contrast, the gust lock system does not typically engage the other control surfaces like the rudder or elevators, which may have separate mechanisms or might not require locking when the aircraft is stationary. Each aircraft model might have different configurations for their gust lock systems, but the focus tends to be on the ailerons, as they are most susceptible to being pushed by wind and may lead to misalignment or damage if not secured.

Knowledge of which flight controls are affected by the gust lock is crucial for pilots and maintenance personnel to properly prepare the aircraft for non-flight conditions and ensure its integrity when left unattended.

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