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Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 583 of 934

How does a climb propeller differ from a cruise propeller?

  1. It has a higher pitch, which gives more drag and lower rpm
  2. It has a lower pitch, which gives more drag and lower rpm
  3. It has a higher pitch, which gives less drag and higher rpm
  4. It has a lower pitch, which gives less drag and higher rpm
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Correct answer: It has a lower pitch, which gives less drag and higher rpm

A climb propeller helps takeoff and climb but lowers cruise performance. A cruise propeller does the opposite.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 7: Aircraft Systems — Propeller — Fixed-Pitch Propeller, page 165

Practice aircraft systems and instruments

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026