Instrument Rating Checkride Practice Test

Which item is NOT checked during taxi prior to takeoff?

1. Magnetic compass

2. Wing flaps

3. Altimeter

4. Heading indicator

The correct answer is: Wing flaps

The item that is typically not checked during taxi prior to takeoff is the wing flaps. During the taxi phase, the primary focus is on ensuring that the aircraft is ready for takeoff, which includes checking critical flight instruments and systems. While the altimeter, magnetic compass, and heading indicator are essential for understanding the aircraft's orientation and altitude, the wing flaps are usually set just before takeoff when the aircraft is at the hold short line or during the takeoff roll. At this point, pilots will configure the flaps to their required setting for takeoff, making it less of a focus during taxiing. Also, since the flaps serve more of an aerodynamic function rather than an instrument function that informs the pilot of the aircraft's current status, they do not fit into the same category of checks that are performed to establish that the aircraft is ready for the departure. Thus, while wing flaps are crucial for takeoff, they are not checked during the taxi phase itself.