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Lift less than weight in level flight

Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice question 24 of 25 on Loading and Performance. ACS element UA.IV.A.K1 · difficulty: standard. Want to answer it in a timed quiz? Use the Remote Pilot (Part 107) practice mode.

Question bank updated 2026-09-22

QUESTIONAn aircraft is in stabilized level flight when lift becomes less than weight. According to the Remote Pilot study guide, what happens?

  1. AThe vertical speed decreases
  2. BThe vertical speed increases
  3. CThe aircraft remains in equilibrium and holds altitude
Show the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A. The vertical speed decreases

  • A — correct The guide states that if lift becomes less than weight, the vertical speed will decrease.
  • B — incorrect Vertical speed increases when lift is greater than weight, not less.
  • C — incorrect Equilibrium exists only when lift equals weight; with less lift the aircraft no longer holds altitude.

BACKGROUND

Lift is the upward force on the wing acting perpendicular to the relative wind and to the aircraft's lateral axis, and it is required to counteract weight. In stabilized level flight, when lift equals weight the aircraft is in equilibrium and neither accelerates upward nor downward. If lift becomes less than weight, the vertical speed decreases. When lift is greater than weight, the vertical speed increases.

STUDY TIP

Compare lift with weight: equal means level, less means descending trend, more means climbing trend.

KEY POINTS

  • Lift equal to weight gives equilibrium.
  • Lift less than weight: vertical speed decreases.
  • Lift greater than weight: vertical speed increases.

SOURCES

  • remote_pilot_study_guide.txt ch4 "Weight"
Practice the Remote Pilot (Part 107) test →Timed 60-question exam, by ACS area, or review your misses. Free.
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SkyDrill is not affiliated with the FAA. This is an original practice item based on 14 CFR part 107, 14 CFR part 89, and the FAA Remote Pilot – Small UAS Study Guide (FAA-G-8082-22). Regulations and handbooks are revised; confirm details against the current edition.