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Matthias Nott
5 days ago e07a553414967d3a090c9b2feea2d1fdfab082a7 
 SPL Exam Questions EN/60 - Navigation.md
....@@ -386,7 +386,7 @@
386386 
387387 CET is UTC+1, meaning it is 1 hour ahead of UTC. To convert to UTC, subtract the offset: 1700 CET - 1 hour = 1600 UTC. Switzerland uses CET (UTC+1) in winter and CEST (UTC+2) in summer — knowing the current offset is essential when filing flight plans or reading NOTAMs.
388388 
389
-### Q21: Vienna (LOWW) is at 016°34'E and Salzburg (LOWS) at 013°00'E, both at approximately the same latitude. What is the difference in sunrise and sunset times (in UTC) between the two cities? (2,00 P.) ^t60q21
389
+### Q21: Vienna (LOWW) is at 016°34'E and Salzburg (LOWS) at 013°00'E, both at approximately the same latitude. What is the difference in sunrise and sunset times (in UTC) between the two cities? ^t60q21
390390 
391391 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q21) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q21)
392392 
....@@ -423,7 +423,7 @@
423423 #### Key Terms
424424 
425425 VFR = Visual Flight Rules
426
-### Q23: Given: WCA: -012°; TH: 125°; MC: 139°; DEV: 002°E. Determine TC, MH, and CH. (2,00 P.) ^t60q23
426
+### Q23: Given: WCA: -012°; TH: 125°; MC: 139°; DEV: 002°E. Determine TC, MH, and CH. ^t60q23
427427 
428428 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q23) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q23)
429429 
....@@ -556,7 +556,7 @@
556556 #### Key Terms
557557 
558558 TC = True Course
559
-### Q29: Given: TC: 183°; WCA: +011°; MH: 198°; CH: 200°. What are TH and VAR? (2,00 P.) ^t60q29
559
+### Q29: Given: TC: 183°; WCA: +011°; MH: 198°; CH: 200°. What are TH and VAR? ^t60q29
560560 
561561 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q29) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q29)
562562 
....@@ -582,7 +582,7 @@
582582 - **TH** = True Heading
583583 - **VAR** = Magnetic Variation
584584 - **WCA** = Wind Correction Angle
585
-### Q30: Given: TC: 183°; WCA: +011°; MH: 198°; CH: 200°. What are TH and DEV? (2,00 P.) ^t60q30
585
+### Q30: Given: TC: 183°; WCA: +011°; MH: 198°; CH: 200°. What are TH and DEV? ^t60q30
586586 
587587 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q30) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q30)
588588 
....@@ -607,7 +607,7 @@
607607 - **TC** = True Course
608608 - **TH** = True Heading
609609 - **WCA** = Wind Correction Angle
610
-### Q31: Given: TC: 183°; WCA: +011°; MH: 198°; CH: 200°. Determine VAR and DEV. (2,00 P.) ^t60q31
610
+### Q31: Given: TC: 183°; WCA: +011°; MH: 198°; CH: 200°. Determine VAR and DEV. ^t60q31
611611 
612612 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q31) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q31)
613613 
....@@ -890,28 +890,45 @@
890890 - **ICAO** = International Civil Aviation Organization
891891 - **NM** = Nautical Mile(s)
892892 - **SPL** = Sailplane Pilot Licence
893
-### Q46: What is the distance from VOR Bruenkendorf (BKD) (53°02'N, 011°33'E) to Pritzwalk (EDBU) (53°11'N, 12°11'E)? ^t60q46
893
+### Q46: What is the distance from Grenchen (LSZG) to Bern-Belp (LSZB)? ^t60q46
894894 
895895 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q46) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q46)
896896 
897897 ![](figures/t60_q46.png)
898898 
899
-- A) 42 km
900
-- B) 24 km
901
-- C) 42 NM
902
-- D) 24 NM
899
+> - Grenchen (LSZG): **47°10′54″N 007°25′02″E**
900
+> - Bern-Belp (LSZB): **46°54′50″N 007°30′00″E**
901
+
902
+- A) 8 NM
903
+- B) 12 NM
904
+- C) 16 NM
905
+- D) 25 NM
903906 
904907 #### Answer
905908 
906
-D)
909
+C)
907910 
908911 #### Explanation
909912 
910
-Both points are at nearly the same latitude (~53°N), so the distance can be estimated using the departure formula. The longitude difference is 12°11' - 11°33' = 38' of longitude. At latitude 53°N, the distance per degree of longitude = 60 NM x cos(53°) ≈ 60 x 0.602 ≈ 36.1 NM/degree, so 38' = 0.633° x 36.1 ≈ 22.9 NM. The latitude difference adds a small component. The chart measurement confirms approximately 24 NM, making option D correct.
913
+Use the equirectangular (departure) formula for short legs:
914
+
915
+- Δlat = 47°10′54″ − 46°54′50″ = **16′04″** ≈ **16.1 NM** south (1′ of latitude = 1 NM).
916
+- Δlon = 007°30′00″ − 007°25′02″ = **4′58″** ≈ **5.0′** east.
917
+- At mean latitude ≈ 47°, 1′ of longitude ≈ cos(47°) ≈ **0.68 NM**, so the east component ≈ 5.0 × 0.68 ≈ **3.4 NM**.
918
+- Total distance = √(16.1² + 3.4²) ≈ √(259 + 12) ≈ **16.4 NM**.
919
+
920
+Option **C (16 NM)** is the best match.
921
+
922
+- **A (8 NM)** ignores the dominant latitude component.
923
+- **B (12 NM)** underestimates the leg.
924
+- **D (25 NM)** overshoots; no reasonable calculation yields this result.
911925 
912926 #### Key Terms
913927 
914
-NM = Nautical Mile(s)
928
+- **NM** = Nautical mile (1′ of latitude ≈ 1 NM ≈ 1.852 km).
929
+- **LSZG** = Grenchen aerodrome.
930
+- **LSZB** = Bern-Belp aerodrome.
931
+- **Departure formula**: distance ≈ √((Δlat·60)² + (Δlon·60·cos φ)²) NM, valid for short legs.
915932 ### Q47: On an aeronautical chart, 7.5 cm represents 60.745 NM in reality. What is the chart scale? ^t60q47
916933 
917934 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q47) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q47)
....@@ -956,7 +973,7 @@
956973 - **MC** = Magnetic Course
957974 - **TC** = True Course
958975 - **VAR** = Magnetic Variation
959
-### Q49: Given: True course from A to B: 250°. Ground distance: 210 NM. TAS: 130 kt. Headwind component: 15 kt. ETD: 0915 UTC. What is the ETA? (2,00 P.) ^t60q49
976
+### Q49: Given: True course from A to B: 250°. Ground distance: 210 NM. TAS: 130 kt. Headwind component: 15 kt. ETD: 0915 UTC. What is the ETA? ^t60q49
960977 
961978 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q49) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q49)
962979 
....@@ -1000,7 +1017,6 @@
10001017 - **Option A** (1356) would correspond to a GS of about 62 kt; option D (1320) would correspond to a GS of about 113 kt.
10011018 - Carefully subtracting the headwind from TAS before dividing gives the correct result.
10021019 
1003
-> Source: Segelflugverband der Schweiz - SFCL_Theorie_Navigation_Version_Schweiz_Uebungen.pdf > Download: https://www.segelflug.ch/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/SFCL_Theorie_Navigation_Version_Schweiz_Uebungen.pdf.
10041020 
10051021 #### Key Terms
10061022 
....@@ -1673,6 +1689,8 @@
16731689 
16741690 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q91) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q91)
16751691 
1692
+![](figures/t60_q91.png)
1693
+
16761694 - A) 134.125
16771695 - B) 124.7
16781696 - C) 120.425
....@@ -1680,13 +1698,14 @@
16801698 
16811699 #### Answer
16821700 
1683
-C)
1701
+B)
16841702 
16851703 #### Explanation
16861704 
1687
-Flying a straight line from Erstfeld northwestward to Fricktal-Schupfart, you traverse multiple CTR and TMA sectors visible on the Swiss ICAO 1:500,000 chart. Each controlled airspace sector has its assigned communication frequency printed on the chart. Counting the control zones sequentially along this route, the third one encountered requires contact on 120.425 MHz (option C). The other frequencies listed correspond to different control zones along other routes or in other positions along this route.
1705
+Flying the straight line from Erstfeld northwestward to Fricktal-Schupfart, the route successively crosses Buochs CTR LSZC (119.625), Emmen CTR LSME (118.000) and then enters the Zurich TMA sectors. Of the four options given, **124.7 MHz — ZURICH INFORMATION (TMA LSZH 7)** is the only frequency that is actually printed on the Swiss ICAO 1:500,000 chart along this corridor. It is the frequency to monitor for flight information as you continue northwest into the Zurich Terminal area, which can be read as the "third control zone" along this transit.
16881706 
1689
-> Source: Segelflugverband der Schweiz - SFCL_Theorie_Navigation_Version_Schweiz_Uebungen.pdf > Download: https://www.segelflug.ch/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/SFCL_Theorie_Navigation_Version_Schweiz_Uebungen.pdf
1707
+> **Note on the source:** The Swiss mock-exam answer key (Examen Blanc Série 1, Questionnaires Spécifiques, Q5 under Navigation) gives 120.425 MHz as the correct answer. That frequency is not on the Swiss ICAO chart anywhere along this route — neither is 134.125 nor 122.45. Only 124.7 (Zurich Info) actually exists on the chart. The source answer key appears to be wrong; we've selected the only defensible option here.
1708
+
16901709 
16911710 #### Key Terms
16921711 
....@@ -1739,6 +1758,8 @@
17391758 ### Q94: During a cross-country flight, you must land at Saanen aerodrome (46°29'11"N/007°14'55"E). On which frequency do you establish radio contact? ^t60q94
17401759 
17411760 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q94) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q94)
1761
+
1762
+![](figures/t60_q94.png)
17421763 
17431764 - **A)** 121.230 MHz
17441765 - **B)** 119.175 MHz
....@@ -1862,6 +1883,8 @@
18621883 ### Q99: On a cross-country flight from Birrfeld aerodrome (47°26'N, 008°13'E) you turn at Courtelary aerodrome (47°10'N, 007°05'E). On the return leg you land at Grenchen aerodrome (47°10'N, 007°25'E). According to the Swiss gliding chart, the distance flown is ^t60q99
18631884 
18641885 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q99) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q99)
1886
+
1887
+![](figures/t60_q99.png)
18651888 
18661889 - A) 58 km
18671890 - B) 232 km
....@@ -2790,6 +2813,8 @@
27902813 
27912814 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q140) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q140)
27922815 
2816
+![](figures/t60_q140.png)
2817
+
27932818 - A) The Sanetsch Pass
27942819 - B) Sion airport
27952820 - C) Saanen aerodrome
....@@ -3299,27 +3324,38 @@
32993324 #### Key Terms
33003325 
33013326 NM = Nautical Mile(s)
3302
-### Q161: What is the distance from VOR Bruenkendorf (BKD) (53°02'N, 011°33'E) to Pritzwalk (EDBU) (53°11'N, 12°11'E)? ^t60q161
3327
+### Q161: What is the approximate distance from Schänis (LSZX) to Sion (LSGS)? ^t60q161
33033328 
33043329 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q161) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q161)
33053330 
33063331 ![](figures/t60_q161.png)
33073332 
3308
-- A) 42 NM
3309
-- B) 42 km
3310
-- C) 24 km
3311
-- D) 24 NM
3333
+> - Schänis (LSZX): **47°10′30″N 009°02′24″E**
3334
+> - Sion (LSGS): **46°13′09″N 007°20′07″E**
3335
+
3336
+- A) 60 NM
3337
+- B) 75 NM
3338
+- C) 90 NM
3339
+- D) 110 NM
33123340 
33133341 #### Answer
33143342 
3315
-D)
3343
+C)
33163344 
33173345 #### Explanation
33183346 
3319
-Using the coordinates: latitude difference = 9' (= 9 NM north-south). Longitude difference = 38'; at latitude 53°N, 1 minute of longitude = cos(53°) NM = approximately 0.60 NM, giving 38 x 0.60 = 22.8 NM east-west. Total distance = sqrt(9^2 + 22.8^2) = sqrt(81 + 520) = sqrt(601) = approximately 24.5 NM, rounded to 24 NM.
3347
+This is a classic long alpine glider cross-country. Apply the equirectangular formula:
33203348 
3321
-- **Options A and B** (42 NM/km) are nearly double the actual distance.
3322
-- **Option C** (24 km) has the right number but wrong unit — 24 NM equals approximately 44 km, not 24 km.
3349
+- Δlat = 47°10′30″ − 46°13′09″ = **57′21″** ≈ **57.4 NM** south.
3350
+- Δlon = 009°02′24″ − 007°20′07″ = **1°42′17″** ≈ **102.3′** west.
3351
+- Mean latitude ≈ 46.7°, so 1′ of longitude ≈ cos(46.7°) ≈ **0.686 NM**, giving the east component ≈ 102.3 × 0.686 ≈ **70.2 NM**.
3352
+- Total distance = √(57.4² + 70.2²) ≈ √(3295 + 4928) ≈ **90.7 NM**.
3353
+
3354
+Option **C (90 NM)** matches.
3355
+
3356
+- **A (60 NM)** only accounts for the latitude component.
3357
+- **B (75 NM)** underestimates the longitude contribution.
3358
+- **D (110 NM)** overshoots — would require a lon factor of ≈1 instead of cos(φ).
33233359 
33243360 #### Key Terms
33253361 
....@@ -3379,7 +3415,7 @@
33793415 - **TAS** = True Airspeed
33803416 - **NM** = Nautical Mile(s)
33813417 - **TC** = True Course
3382
-### Q164: Which answer completes the flight plan (marked cells)? (3,00 P.) ^t60q164
3418
+### Q164: Which answer completes the flight plan (marked cells)? ^t60q164
33833419 
33843420 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q164) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q164)
33853421 
....@@ -3452,28 +3488,38 @@
34523488 
34533489 - **GS** = Ground Speed
34543490 - **NM** = Nautical Mile(s)
3455
-### Q167: What is the true course (TC) from Uelzen (EDVU) (52°59'N, 10°28'E) to Neustadt (EDAN) (53°22'N, 011°37'E)? ^t60q167
3491
+### Q167: What is the true course (TC) from Birrfeld (LSZF) to Grenchen (LSZG)? ^t60q167
34563492 
34573493 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q167) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q167)
34583494 
34593495 ![](figures/t60_q167.png)
34603496 
3461
-- A) 235°
3462
-- B) 241°
3463
-- C) 055°
3464
-- D) 061°
3497
+> - Birrfeld (LSZF): **47°26′35″N 008°14′00″E**
3498
+> - Grenchen (LSZG): **47°10′54″N 007°25′02″E**
3499
+
3500
+- A) 215°
3501
+- B) 230°
3502
+- C) 245°
3503
+- D) 060°
34653504 
34663505 #### Answer
34673506 
3468
-D)
3507
+C)
34693508 
34703509 #### Explanation
34713510 
3472
-Neustadt lies to the north-northeast of Uelzen (higher latitude and further east). Plotting the route from Uelzen to Neustadt on the chart yields a northeast heading of approximately 061°.
3511
+Grenchen lies south-west of Birrfeld (lower latitude and further west), so the course must be in the SW quadrant (180°–270°).
34733512 
3474
-- **Option B** (241°) is the reciprocal course (from Neustadt to Uelzen).
3475
-- **Option A** (235°) is also a southwest heading, which would be the wrong direction.
3476
-- **Option C** (055°) is close but does not match the precise bearing calculated from the chart coordinates.
3513
+- Δlat = 47°10′54″ − 47°26′35″ = **−15′41″** ≈ **−15.7 NM** (south component, dN).
3514
+- Δlon = 007°25′02″ − 008°14′00″ = **−48′58″** ≈ **−49.0′** (west).
3515
+- Mean latitude ≈ 47.3°, so 1′ of longitude ≈ cos(47.3°) ≈ **0.678 NM**, giving the east component ≈ −49.0 × 0.678 ≈ **−33.2 NM** (dE).
3516
+- **TC** = atan2(dE, dN) = atan2(−33.2, −15.7) → third-quadrant bearing ≈ **245°**.
3517
+
3518
+Option **C (245°)** is correct.
3519
+
3520
+- **A (215°)** is SW but too far south of the true track.
3521
+- **B (230°)** is in the right quadrant but underestimates the westerly component.
3522
+- **D (060°)** is the reciprocal — the course from Grenchen back to Birrfeld, not the forward direction asked.
34773523 
34783524 #### Key Terms
34793525 
....@@ -3552,32 +3598,44 @@
35523598 #### Key Terms
35533599 
35543600 NM = Nautical Mile(s)
3555
-### Q171: What is the distance from Neustadt (EDAN) (53°22'N, 011°37'E) to Uelzen (EDVU) (52°59'N, 10°28'E)? ^t60q171
3601
+### Q171: What is the distance from Samedan (LSZS) to Lugano (LSZA)? ^t60q171
35563602 
35573603 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q171) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q171)
35583604 
35593605 ![](figures/t60_q171.png)
35603606 
3561
-- A) 46 NM
3562
-- B) 78 km
3563
-- C) 85 km
3564
-- D) 46 km
3607
+> - Samedan (LSZS): **46°32′04″N 009°53′02″E**
3608
+> - Lugano (LSZA): **46°00′15″N 008°54′38″E**
3609
+
3610
+- A) 35 NM
3611
+- B) 45 NM
3612
+- C) 51 NM
3613
+- D) 65 NM
35653614 
35663615 #### Answer
35673616 
3568
-A)
3617
+C)
35693618 
35703619 #### Explanation
35713620 
3572
-From the coordinates: latitude difference = 23' (= 23 NM north-south). Longitude difference = 69'; at approximately 53°N latitude, 1' of longitude = cos(53°) = 0.602 NM, so 69 x 0.602 = 41.5 NM east-west. Total distance = sqrt(23^2 + 41.5^2) = sqrt(529 + 1722) = sqrt(2251) = approximately 47 NM, rounded to 46 NM on the chart.
3621
+Equirectangular approximation across the southern Swiss Alps:
35733622 
3574
-- **Options B and C** (78 km) equal approximately 42 NM, which is too low.
3575
-- **Option D** (46 km) has the right number but wrong unit — 46 NM is about 85 km, not 46 km.
3623
+- Δlat = 46°32′04″ − 46°00′15″ = **31′49″** ≈ **31.8 NM** south.
3624
+- Δlon = 009°53′02″ − 008°54′38″ = **58′24″** ≈ **58.4′** west.
3625
+- Mean latitude ≈ 46.3°, so 1′ of longitude ≈ cos(46.3°) ≈ **0.691 NM**, giving the west component ≈ 58.4 × 0.691 ≈ **40.4 NM**.
3626
+- Total distance = √(31.8² + 40.4²) ≈ √(1012 + 1630) ≈ **51.4 NM**.
3627
+
3628
+Option **C (51 NM)** is the best match.
3629
+
3630
+- **A (35 NM)** only accounts for the latitude component.
3631
+- **B (45 NM)** underestimates the longitude contribution.
3632
+- **D (65 NM)** overshoots; it would be about right if the longitude were not shortened by cos(φ).
35763633 
35773634 #### Key Terms
35783635 
3579
-- **D** — Drag
3580
-- **NM** = Nautical Mile(s)
3636
+- **NM** = Nautical mile (1′ of latitude ≈ 1 NM ≈ 1.852 km).
3637
+- **LSZS** = Samedan aerodrome (Engadin).
3638
+- **LSZA** = Lugano aerodrome (Ticino).
35813639 ### Q172: What does the term terrestrial navigation mean? ^t60q172
35823640 
35833641 [DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q172) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q172)
....@@ -3602,3 +3660,230 @@
36023660 #### Key Terms
36033661 
36043662 VFR = Visual Flight Rules
3663
+
3664
+---
3665
+
3666
+### Q173: What does QNH mean? ^t60q173
3667
+
3668
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q173) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q173)
3669
+
3670
+- **A)** The altimeter reads zero when set to QNH on the ground.
3671
+- **B)** The altimeter reads the pressure altitude when set to QNH.
3672
+- **C)** The altimeter reads zero when airborne after setting QNH.
3673
+- **D)** The altimeter reads the aerodrome elevation when set on the ground.
3674
+
3675
+#### Answer
3676
+
3677
+D)
3678
+
3679
+#### Explanation
3680
+
3681
+QNH is the altimeter setting that causes the altimeter to indicate the field elevation (above mean sea level) when the aircraft is on the ground. In other words, setting QNH on the Kollsman window makes the altimeter read the actual altitude above sea level of the aerodrome. In flight, the altimeter then shows the aircraft's altitude AMSL.
3682
+
3683
+- **Option A** describes QFE, not QNH (QFE causes the altimeter to read zero on the ground).
3684
+- **Options B and C** are incorrect; QNH relates altitude to sea level, not pressure altitude.
3685
+
3686
+#### Key Terms
3687
+
3688
+- **QNH** = Altimeter setting for altitude above mean sea level (reads field elevation on ground)
3689
+- **QFE** = Altimeter setting that reads zero on the ground at a specific aerodrome
3690
+- **AMSL** = Above Mean Sea Level
3691
+
3692
+---
3693
+
3694
+### Q174: You forgot to set the QNH before take-off and are now airborne. What should you do? ^t60q174
3695
+
3696
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q174) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q174)
3697
+
3698
+- **A)** Land immediately, as further flight is not permitted.
3699
+- **B)** Use the standard pressure setting (1013.25 hPa) for the remainder of the flight.
3700
+- **C)** Continue without adjustment; the error is negligible.
3701
+- **D)** Request the current QNH by radio and set it on the altimeter.
3702
+
3703
+#### Answer
3704
+
3705
+D)
3706
+
3707
+#### Explanation
3708
+
3709
+If QNH was not set before departure, the correct action is to request the current QNH via radio (from a ground station, ATIS, or ATC) and set it on the altimeter as soon as possible. Flying with an incorrectly set altimeter poses a safety risk, particularly in mountainous terrain or controlled airspace.
3710
+
3711
+- **Option A** is too extreme; the situation can be corrected in flight.
3712
+- **Option B** (standard setting 1013.25 hPa) is used above the transition altitude, not as a substitute for QNH at low altitudes.
3713
+- **Option C** is wrong; the error can be significant depending on local pressure.
3714
+
3715
+#### Key Terms
3716
+
3717
+- **QNH** = Local altimeter setting for sea-level altitude reference
3718
+- **ATIS** = Automatic Terminal Information Service (broadcasts QNH and weather)
3719
+- **Transition altitude** = Altitude below which QNH is used; above which standard setting (1013) applies
3720
+
3721
+---
3722
+
3723
+### Q175: On the Swiss soaring chart, the text "NIL" appears in a soaring zone near Langenthal. What does this mean for cloud separation? ^t60q175
3724
+
3725
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q175) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q175)
3726
+
3727
+- **A)** Normal VFR cloud separation distances apply.
3728
+- **B)** Flight in cloud is permitted in this zone.
3729
+- **C)** Cloud separation is reduced to 150 m horizontal and 100 ft vertical.
3730
+- **D)** No flight is permitted when clouds are present.
3731
+
3732
+#### Answer
3733
+
3734
+A)
3735
+
3736
+#### Explanation
3737
+
3738
+The designation "NIL" in the cloud separation column of a soaring zone on the Swiss soaring chart means that no special (reduced) cloud separation applies - the standard VFR cloud separation distances are required. This contrasts with zones that specify reduced minima (e.g., 150 m / 300 ft). Pilots must apply the full standard VFR cloud clearances in NIL zones.
3739
+
3740
+- **Options B and C** describe reduced separation conditions, which do not apply when NIL is stated.
3741
+- **Option D** is incorrect; NIL does not prohibit flight near clouds, it simply requires standard separation.
3742
+
3743
+#### Key Terms
3744
+
3745
+- **NIL** = No reduced cloud separation; standard VFR minima apply
3746
+- **Soaring zone** = Designated area on the Swiss soaring chart with specific soaring conditions
3747
+- **VFR cloud separation** = Standard visibility and cloud distance requirements for visual flight
3748
+
3749
+---
3750
+![](figures/t60q175.png)
3751
+
3752
+### Q176: During which period of the year are Class E airspace soaring periods active in Switzerland? ^t60q176
3753
+
3754
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q176) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q176)
3755
+
3756
+- **A)** Year-round, daily from sunrise to sunset.
3757
+- **B)** June 1 to September 30.
3758
+- **C)** April 1 to October 31.
3759
+- **D)** May 1 to August 31.
3760
+
3761
+#### Answer
3762
+
3763
+C)
3764
+
3765
+#### Explanation
3766
+
3767
+The soaring periods within Class E airspace in Switzerland are active from April 1 to October 31. During this period, designated soaring zones within Class E may be in use by gliders under the conditions published on the Swiss soaring chart. Outside this period, the special soaring provisions do not apply.
3768
+
3769
+- **Option A** is incorrect; the soaring periods are seasonal, not year-round.
3770
+- **Options B and D** give the wrong date ranges.
3771
+
3772
+#### Key Terms
3773
+
3774
+- **Class E airspace** = Controlled airspace where IFR flights receive ATC separation; VFR flights may operate without clearance
3775
+- **Soaring period** = Season during which special glider soaring conditions apply in Swiss airspace
3776
+
3777
+---
3778
+
3779
+### Q177: When reading the military activity notes on the Swiss soaring chart, what should glider pilots pay particular attention to? ^t60q177
3780
+
3781
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q177) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q177)
3782
+
3783
+- **A)** Weekday morning activity hours only.
3784
+- **B)** Night flights, especially during winter months.
3785
+- **C)** Weekend activity during summer holidays.
3786
+- **D)** Instrument approach procedures at military aerodromes.
3787
+
3788
+#### Answer
3789
+
3790
+B)
3791
+
3792
+#### Explanation
3793
+
3794
+Military activity notes on the Swiss soaring chart include information about night operations, which are particularly relevant in winter when darkness falls earlier. Glider pilots should be aware of military night training flights in certain areas, as these may affect airspace availability or safety. The notes indicate periods and types of military activity that are not standard daytime operations.
3795
+
3796
+- **Option A** is incomplete; military activity can occur outside weekday mornings.
3797
+- **Options C and D** are not the primary focus of these notes for glider pilots.
3798
+
3799
+#### Key Terms
3800
+
3801
+- **Military activity notes** = Annotations on the Swiss soaring chart describing military operations in specific areas
3802
+- **Night operations** = Military flights conducted during darkness, relevant for airspace management
3803
+
3804
+---
3805
+
3806
+### Q178: Who is responsible for activating the Dittingen-Nord soaring sector? ^t60q178
3807
+
3808
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q178) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q178)
3809
+
3810
+- **A)** The nearest ATC centre.
3811
+- **B)** The Swiss NOTAM office (AIS).
3812
+- **C)** The airfield duty officer (chef de place).
3813
+- **D)** The regional gliding federation representative.
3814
+
3815
+#### Answer
3816
+
3817
+C)
3818
+
3819
+#### Explanation
3820
+
3821
+The Dittingen-Nord soaring sector is activated by the airfield duty officer (chef de place / Platzchef) at Dittingen aerodrome. This local activation process is typical for Swiss soaring sectors that are tied to specific aerodromes - the on-site responsible person coordinates the activation of the sector based on actual soaring activity. This information is published on the Swiss soaring chart.
3822
+
3823
+- **Options A and B** involve ATC/AIS, which manage instrument and controlled airspace, not local soaring sector activations.
3824
+- **Option D** is not the defined responsible authority for sector activation.
3825
+
3826
+#### Key Terms
3827
+
3828
+- **Chef de place** = Airfield duty officer responsible for local aerodrome operations
3829
+- **Dittingen-Nord** = Soaring sector near Dittingen aerodrome in northwestern Switzerland
3830
+- **Sector activation** = Process by which a soaring sector is put into use for the day
3831
+
3832
+---
3833
+![](figures/t60q178.png)
3834
+
3835
+### Q179: What is the radio frequency used by retrieve teams operating in the Alps? ^t60q179
3836
+
3837
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q179) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q179)
3838
+
3839
+- **A)** 121.500 MHz (emergency frequency).
3840
+- **B)** 123.500 MHz (air-to-air).
3841
+- **C)** 122.475 MHz.
3842
+- **D)** 126.700 MHz (Swiss gliding common frequency).
3843
+
3844
+#### Answer
3845
+
3846
+C)
3847
+
3848
+#### Explanation
3849
+
3850
+The frequency 122.475 MHz is designated for retrieve teams (ground crews picking up landed-out gliders) operating in the Alps region. This frequency allows the pilot and retrieve crew to communicate when outside normal gliding club radio range. It is published on the Swiss soaring chart and in relevant Swiss aeronautical information.
3851
+
3852
+- **Option A** (121.5 MHz) is the international emergency/distress frequency and must not be used for routine communication.
3853
+- **Option B** (123.5 MHz) is used for general air-to-air communication, not specifically retrieve operations.
3854
+- **Option D** is not the designated retrieve frequency.
3855
+
3856
+#### Key Terms
3857
+
3858
+- **Retrieve team** = Ground crew responsible for collecting a glider and pilot after an off-field landing
3859
+- **122.475 MHz** = Retrieve team frequency for Alpine operations (published on Swiss soaring chart)
3860
+
3861
+---
3862
+
3863
+### Q180: Where can a glider pilot find information about soaring conditions and procedures in Class D and Class C airspace in Switzerland? ^t60q180
3864
+
3865
+[DE](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20DE/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q180) · [FR](../SPL%20Exam%20Questions%20FR/60%20-%20Navigation.md#^t60q180)
3866
+
3867
+- **A)** In the soaring weather bulletin.
3868
+- **B)** In the GAFOR forecast.
3869
+- **C)** On the KOSIF system.
3870
+- **D)** On the Swiss soaring chart.
3871
+
3872
+#### Answer
3873
+
3874
+D)
3875
+
3876
+#### Explanation
3877
+
3878
+Information about soaring conditions and procedures in Class D and Class C airspace in Switzerland is published on the Swiss soaring chart (1:300,000). This chart contains the soaring sectors, altitude limits, frequencies, activation periods, and special conditions applicable to gliders in controlled airspace.
3879
+
3880
+- **Option A** (soaring weather bulletin) provides general or meteorological information, not airspace-specific details.
3881
+- **Option B** (GAFOR) is a meteorological forecast for general aviation routing, not airspace information.
3882
+- **Option C** (KOSIF) is a military information system, not intended for this type of soaring information.
3883
+
3884
+#### Key Terms
3885
+
3886
+- **Class D** = Controlled airspace (ATC clearance required, full services provided)
3887
+- **Class C** = Controlled airspace (separation for all flights, clearance required)
3888
+- **Swiss soaring chart** = 1:300,000 aeronautical chart specifically for glider pilots in Switzerland
3889
+- **GAFOR** = General Aviation FORecast (route weather forecast)