Aircraft LSA Inspection Balloon Exam

FAA Repairman Certificate – Light-Sport Aircraft (LSA) Inspection – Balloon Exam Practice Test Questions And Correct Answers (Verified Answers) Plus Rationales 2026 Q&A | Instant Download Pdf

• What is the primary purpose of the envelope in a hot air balloon?
• To provide directional control
• To support the gondola
• To contain the heated air that provides lift
• To regulate pressure at altitude

Rationale: The envelope holds the heated air, which makes the balloon

buoyant and allows it to ascend.

2. The material commonly used for a hot air balloon envelope is:

• Canvas
• Ripstop nylon
• Polyester film 1 / 4

• Vinyl

Rationale: Ripstop nylon is lightweight, heat-resistant, and strong enough

to contain hot air without tearing.

• What component of a hot air balloon controls ascent and descent?
• Parachute valve
• Basket
• Burner
• Fuel system

Rationale: The burner heats the air inside the envelope, increasing lift for

ascent; reducing heat allows descent.

4. The basket in a hot air balloon is typically constructed from:

• Woven wicker
• Aluminum
• Fiberglass
• Steel tubing

Rationale: Wicker provides flexibility, durability, and light weight, making

it ideal for absorbing landing impact.

• Which FAA regulation governs the certification and maintenance of light-

sport aircraft? 2 / 4

• Part 21
• Part 43
• Part 65
• Part 91

Rationale: 14 CFR Part 43 outlines maintenance, preventive maintenance,

rebuilding, and alteration standards.

• What is the maximum takeoff weight for a lighter-than-air light-sport

aircraft (balloon)?

• 500 pounds
• 660 pounds
• 850 pounds
• 1000 pounds

Rationale: FAA defines LSA balloons as having a maximum takeoff weight

not exceeding 660 pounds.

• What type of fuel is most commonly used in hot air balloons?
• Aviation gasoline
• Diesel fuel
• Propane
• Butane

Rationale: Propane is clean-burning, efficient, and provides the high heat

output required for balloon flight. 3 / 4

• What document must a repairman hold to perform annual inspections on

an experimental LSA balloon?

• Private Pilot Certificate
• Repairman Certificate (LSA – Inspection)
• Mechanic Certificate
• Airframe Certificate

Rationale: A Repairman Certificate with LSA-Inspection rating authorizes

annual condition inspections on owner aircraft.

9. The parachute valve at the top of a balloon envelope is used to:

• Add more lift
• Release hot air for descent or landing
• Prevent overpressure
• Cool the air inside

Rationale: Opening the parachute valve allows hot air to escape,

decreasing lift and enabling descent.

10. A balloon’s fuel tank should be inspected for:

• Air leaks
• Corrosion, damage, and secure fittings
• Burner flame color
• / 4