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

Which probe is not heated while the aircraft is on the ground?

1. Total Air Temperature (TAT) probe

2. Static pressure probe

3. Angle of attack probe

4. Beta probe

The correct answer is: Total Air Temperature (TAT) probe

The Total Air Temperature (TAT) probe measures the temperature of the air around the aircraft and is part of the system that helps determine the aircraft's performance and limitations during flight. While it is designed to provide accurate readings under all phases of flight, it does not require heating when the aircraft is on the ground. In contrast, other probes such as the static pressure probe, angle of attack probe, and beta probe may be heated to prevent the accumulation of ice and ensure accurate readings during flight operations. Ice accumulation can interfere with the aerodynamic properties being measured and could potentially lead to erroneous data being fed into the aircraft's systems. Hence, the TAT probe is managed differently, relying on flight conditions to ensure its accurate operation.