DADE Cheat Sheet 2026

The 30 highest-yield DADE facts, distilled from real exam questions. Print it, save it as a PDF, or study it here — free, no sign-up.

1. The Center of Gravity (CG) envelope defines which of the following? → The acceptable forward and aft limits within which CG must remain for safe flight
2. What is the purpose of the aircraft’s flight data monitoring system? → To monitor and transmit performance data for analysis
3. What is the minimum age requirement to hold an Aircraft Dispatcher Certificate? → 18 years of age
4. Under what circumstances may a Part 121 PIC deviate from any rule in 14 CFR Part 121? → In an in-flight emergency requiring immediate action for safety
5. How does wind speed and direction impact aircraft performance during takeoff? → Tailwinds decrease the takeoff distance
6. Under what authority does the FAA designate individuals as Designated Aircraft Dispatch Examiners (DADEs)? → 49 USC 44709 and 14 CFR Part 183 Subpart C
7. What does a negative temperature deviation from ISA indicate for aircraft performance planning? → Improved engine performance and shorter takeoff distances
8. What is the purpose of the FA (Area Forecast) in dispatch planning? → To describe general weather conditions over a large geographic area for enroute planning
9. What is the role of radar in air traffic control? → Radar helps controllers track aircraft position, speed, and altitude
10. What is the maximum time a dispatcher may be on duty without a rest period under Part 121 domestic rules? → 12 hours in any 24-hour period
11. What is the role of ATC in aircraft separation? → ATC ensures safe horizontal and vertical separation between aircraft
12. What does the term 'SITA' refer to in aircraft communication? → A global communication network for flight data
13. Under what regulation must a Part 121 air carrier maintain a Dispatch Training Program? → 14 CFR Part 121 Subpart S
14. When an aircraft's loaded CG falls aft of the certified aft limit, the primary flight safety concern is: → Reduced longitudinal static stability and possible loss of pitch control
15. What is the role of VHF radios in aircraft communication? → They provide short-range communication between aircraft and ATC
16. What action must a Part 121 dispatcher take if they receive information indicating unsafe conditions enroute after a flight has departed? → Immediately advise the pilot-in-command and coordinate appropriate action
17. Structural floor loading limits for cargo compartments are expressed as: → Weight per unit area (lbs/ft² or kg/m²) that the floor structure can safely support
18. When computing takeoff weight for dispatch purposes, what does zero fuel weight (ZFW) represent? → The aircraft weight with all payload but excluding usable fuel
19. If cargo is loaded such that the forward hold's floor loading limit (lbs/ft²) is exceeded, the dispatcher should: → Require redistribution or removal of cargo until the floor limit is no longer exceeded
20. What is the significance of a PIREP reporting moderate rime icing at a specific altitude for dispatch? → It provides real-time icing conditions useful for route planning and altitude selection
21. How does an aircraft's weight affect its landing distance? → Heavier aircraft require longer landing distances
22. How does risk management contribute to aviation safety? → By preventing all risk-related events
23. What does 'ADS-B' stand for in aircraft communication systems? → Automatic Dependent Surveillance–Broadcast
24. What is the function of hazard identification in SMS? → To identify potential safety risks and hazards
25. Why is communication between pilots and air traffic controllers crucial? → It ensures timely coordination for safe aircraft operations
26. What is the primary function of an aircraft's communication system? → To allow communication with air traffic control and other aircraft
27. A dispatcher calculates that an aircraft will exceed its Maximum Landing Weight (MLW) at the destination. What is the most appropriate corrective action? → Plan a fuel burn-off holding pattern or jettison procedure to reach MLW before landing
28. How should a dispatcher account for headwinds when filing an IFR flight plan fuel load? → Headwinds increase flight time and fuel consumption requiring additional fuel
29. What is the primary function of air traffic control (ATC)? → To provide instructions and clearances for safe aircraft movement in controlled airspace
30. What is the legal effect of the dispatcher NOT signing the dispatch release? → The flight cannot legally depart under Part 121 domestic rules