Which of the following is NOT listed as a factor of in-flight stability?

• A. Proper Weight
• B. Crosswind Conditions
• C. Aerodynamic Drag
• D. Proper Drag Surface

Answer: (B)

In-flight stability comes from the aircraft’s own design and mass properties. Proper weight keeps the center of gravity within stable limits, giving predictable pitch and overall handling. Aerodynamic drag contributes by providing damping moments that help the aircraft resist disturbances and return to steady flight. A properly designed drag surface adds controlled resistance that further stabilizes the aircraft’s response in yaw and pitch. Crosswind conditions, while they affect the flight path and require pilot correction, are environmental disturbances rather than intrinsic stability factors. They don’t define how the aircraft resists perturbations; they simply challenge the pilot to counteract them.