2025 Complete Commercial Pilot Airplane Performance Practice Exam

To determine the fuel consumption per hour at an altitude of 7,500 feet while using 52 percent power, it's essential to consider how fuel flow rates are correlated with power settings in aircraft performance.

Typically, at reduced power settings, fuel consumption decreases proportionally. Most aircraft performance charts provide specific fuel consumption rates at various power settings and altitudes. At 52 percent power, the aircraft will utilize fuel more efficiently than at higher power settings, yielding a lower hourly fuel consumption figure.

The figure of 6.2 gallons per hour reflects an optimal balance between efficient performance at that altitude and the specific fuel consumption characteristics of the aircraft. It indicates that at this reduced power setting, the aircraft maintains effective operation while minimizing fuel use, which is crucial in flight planning for cost-effectiveness and range calculations.

This approach allows pilots to predict fuel needs appropriately and manage their flight time more effectively, ensuring they can complete their missions without over-relying on fuel reserves. Understanding these characteristics is vital for safe and efficient flight operations, especially when planning for longer flights or managing fuel loads.