PSA Airlines Canadair Regional Jet Systems (PSA-CRJ) Practice Exam

To navigate using the FMS, which of the following statements is true?

1. The radios must be in manual tune

2. The NAV source must be set to green needles

3. The radios must be in auto tune and the NAV source to white needles

4. Automatic navigation is only applicable at cruising altitude

The correct answer is: The radios must be in auto tune and the NAV source to white needles

Navigating using the Flight Management System (FMS) in an aircraft like the Canadair Regional Jet relies on the proper configuration of the navigation radios and the navigation source information displayed to the pilots. The statement that the radios must be in auto tune and the NAV source set to white needles is correct because, in this configuration, the FMS can automatically tune the navigation radios to the appropriate frequencies based on the flight plan entered. This allows for seamless navigation as the FMS will manage the inputs required for accurate position fixing and navigation throughout various phases of flight, including climbs and descents. The use of "white needles" indicates that the aircraft is receiving navigation data through the FMS rather than manually tuned sources, which is necessary for the automation of navigation functions. This integration enhances operational efficiency and reduces pilot workload, making the navigation process more reliable during flight. In contrast, having the radios set to manual tune or using green needles would involve more manual input and oversight, which is not ideal when the FMS is designed to handle these tasks automatically. Additionally, automatic navigation is not restricted to cruising altitude; it is applicable across all phases of flight as long as the FMS is properly configured and functioning.