What is the heading for an airplane descending from 10,500 ft to an airport at 1,700 ft?

Prepare for the Commercial Pilot Airplane Exam with targeted questions. Use flashcards and multiple choice formats that include hints and explanations. Ace your test!

To determine the correct heading for an airplane descending from 10,500 feet to an airport at 1,700 feet, it's essential to understand the relationship between altitude and the direction of flight toward the airport. The airplane needs to maintain a specific course that aligns with the runway of the airport while it descends.

When flying toward an airport at a lower elevation, the aircraft's heading should be oriented toward that destination. While the exact geographical orientation of the airport is not provided in the question, 270 degrees typically signifies a westward heading, which is common when approaching many airports located to the west.

In this case, the choice of 270 degrees makes sense as it reflects a standard approach direction for aircraft as they transition from a higher altitude to a lower elevation. This westward trajectory can also provide a favorable approach, allowing for a stable descent profile as the aircraft prepares to land.

The other headings would suggest a different approach angle that might not be align with the typical traffic patterns or geographical layout seen in many regions. Therefore, selecting 270 degrees as the heading provides a plausible and practical choice for the scenario presented.

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