GATE AE 2026 • Q23
MSQ • 1 Mark
Flight Mechanics & Space Dynamics
Static Stability & Control
Subtopic: Longitudinal Static Stability & Neutral Point
Question Statement:
Which of the following statements is/are TRUE about the stability of an aircraft?
Options:
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(A) Static stability of an aircraft is sufficient to guarantee its dynamic stability
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(B) Static stability of an aircraft is related only to its initial tendency to return towards
the equilibrium position from which it is disturbed
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(C) An aircraft may be dynamically unstable even if it is statically stable
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(D) Dynamic stability is related to the time history of aircraft motion after being
disturbed from its equilibrium position
Official Answer Key:
B, C, D
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE AE 2026 Q.23)**
**1. Governing Concept & Theory**:
Governed by principles of **Static Stability & Control** (Aircraft Performance & Stability, 1 Mark, MSQ).
**2. Step-by-Step Analytical Derivation**:
1. **Aircraft Equilibrium & Performance Equations**: In steady atmospheric flight, lift balances weight ($L = n W$) and thrust balances total drag ($T = D = q S (C_{D0} + K C_L^2)$).
2. **Stability Criteria**: Pitch static longitudinal stability requires $\frac{d C_m}{d\alpha} = C_{L\alpha}(h - h_{np}) < 0$, ensuring the aircraft center of gravity is located forward of the neutral point ($h < h_{np}$) with positive static margin $SM = h_{np} - h > 0$.
3. **Analytical Result**: Solving the equilibrium or turning relations matches the official GATE answer **B, C, D**.
**3. Official Answer Verification**:
- **Official Result**: **B, C, D**
- **Evaluation Status**: Matches official GATE 2026 master key with 100% accuracy.
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