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Ground operation precaution for weather radar

Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice question 6 of 26 on Communications, Light Signals, and Runway Lighting Systems. ACS element AM.II.I.R1 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Aviation Mechanic Airframe (AMA) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONA technician needs to run an aircraft's weather radar on the ramp to verify its operation. Which precaution applies?

  1. APoint the antenna at a nearby building to absorb the beam.
  2. BDo not operate the radar while fueling is under way.
  3. CRun the radar inside a closed hangar for safety.
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B. Do not operate the radar while fueling is under way.

  • A — incorrect Operation of radar should not take place while the radar is pointed toward a building.
  • B — correct Operation of radar should not take place when refueling takes place.
  • C — incorrect Operation of the radar should not occur in hangars unless special radio wave absorption material is used.

BACKGROUND

Special precautions must be followed by the technician during maintenance and operation of weather radar systems, and all manufacturer instructions must be followed. Physical harm is possible from the high energy radiation emitted, especially to the eyes and testes, so no one should look into the antenna of a transmitting radar. Operation of the radar should not occur in hangars unless special radio wave absorption material is used, and it should not take place while the radar is pointed toward a building or when refueling takes place. Radar units should be maintained and operated only by qualified personnel. The radome covering the antenna must only be painted with approved paint so the radio signals pass unobstructed.

STUDY TIP

Treat a transmitting radar as a radiation source with a sweep area: clear the beam of people, buildings and fuel before it is energized.

KEY POINTS

  • Radar radiation can cause physical harm, especially to the eyes and testes.
  • Do not operate radar in a hangar, toward a building, or during refueling.
  • Only qualified personnel should maintain and operate radar units.

SOURCES

  • ama-airframe/ch11.txt "Weather Radar"
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on FAA-H-8083-31B Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, and 14 CFR part 43. Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.