Airline Transport Pilot Written Knowledge Practice Test

When a pilot increases the angle of bank without taking corrective action, the vertical component of lift is affected negatively. The primary reason lies in the mechanics of flight, particularly the relationship between lift, weight, and bank angles.

As the angle of bank increases, the lift vector tilts. This change in lift vector results in a greater proportion of lift being directed horizontally to counteract the aircraft's weight, which leads to a decrease in the vertical component of lift. Since lift is responsible for countering weight, a reduction in the vertical lift component means that the aircraft will experience an increase in sink rate, as it is no longer able to fully counteract the force of gravity.

Therefore, the correct answer indicates that as the angle of bank increases, the total lift generated may remain the same due to the airspeed and other factors, but its vertical component decreases, resulting in an increased sink rate as the lift is less capable of supporting the aircraft against gravity. This understanding is crucial for pilots to maintain control of the aircraft, particularly during turns and to avoid undesirable flight scenarios like increased descent rates or potential stalls.