The main study guide for studying the PPAER exam is the TP 12880E/F. This guide is located here.
Below are the topics which are fairly common to see on the PPAER. For the ease of reading and making a point, we have taken the format of Transport Canada’s written examination results forms.
· Apply right-of-way rules.
· Calculate landing distance from a performance chart.
· Calculate weight and balance.
· Calculate maximum flight distance from shore.
· Decode a PIREP.
· Decode a TAF.
· Define night.
· Determine heading correction to fly to destination.
· Determine AWWS GFA issue and valid times.
· Explain how density altitude affects aeroplane performance.
· Explain the effects of a blocked pitot system.
· Explain the effect of wind on gliding distance.
· Explain the relationship between TAS and IAS.
· Extract aeronautical information from navigation charts.
· Explain the causes of wheelbarrowing.
· Identify characteristics of high speed flight.
· Identify critical surfaces with regard to aircraft icing.
· Identify the features of a squall line.
· Identify the symptoms of hyperventilation.
· Interpret a NOTAM.
· Interpret the CFS.
· Interpret VFR Navigation Chart symbols and information.
· Interpret VNC scales.
· Interpret VNC symbols and information.
· Predict the possible effect of making an approach to a sloping runway.
· Predict the expected illusions when turning from into-wind to downwind.
· Recall the effects of carburetor heat.
· Recall proper diversion procedures.
· Recall the circuit procedures at uncontrolled aerodromes.
· Recall the pilot’s authority for determining runway selection.
· Recall factors which affect the indicated stall speed.
· Recall the cloud type associated with a stable air mass.
· Recall the effect of impact icinq.
· Recall the regulatory requirements for a recurrent training program.
· Recall the requirements for carrying life preservers.
· Recall criteria to initiate a PIREP.
· Recall the height of cloud bases from TAF and GFA.
· Recall the regulatory requirements for a recurrent training program.
· Recall VDF operation.
· Recall the VFR fuel requirements.
· Recognize the effects and hazards of a malfunctioning ignition switch.
· Recognize the characteristics of stable air.
· Recognize the effects, rules and guidelines concerning the consumption of alcohol.
· Recognize the characteristics of unstable air.
· Recognize the conditions conducive to caburettor icing.
· Recognize the need for proper octane fuel.
· Recognize the relationship between inversions and wind shear.
· State the guidelines for taking medication.
All of this information on pilot training and flight training in Canada is also available at www.myflighttraining.ca.