The main study guide for studying the CPAER exam is the TP 12881E/F. This guide is located here.

Below are the topics which are fairly common to see on the CPAER. For the ease of reading and making a point, we have taken the format of Transport Canada’s written examination results forms. Please note that many candidates have found this examination particularly difficult. We suggest studying various other resources beyond this website.

Navigation

Calculate a heading correction.
Calculate distance travelled in a descent.
Calculate distance travelled in a climb.  
Calculate fuel remaining at destination.
Calculate magnetic heading.
Calculate ground speed.
Calculate relative bearing.
Choose VOR selections for an airway.
Correct track deviations using the “double track error” method
Describe the characteristics of map projections
Describe the indications of a satisfactory VOR check.
Describe the information provided by VDF.
Determine the relative bearing of a NDB.
Determine minimum reception altitude from a LO Chart.
Differentiate between VOR, DME and TACAN and recognize the limitations of each.  
Explain the principles of GPS.
Explain the principles of DME.
Extract aeronautical information from navigation charts.
Identify class of airspace.
Identify DME facilities.
Interpret aeronautical information on a VNC
Interpret topographical information on a VNC.
Plot waypoints, measure track, and calculate ETE.  
Recall the format for completing a VFR Flight Plan.
Recognize a satisfactory VOT check.
Recall the radio procedures applicable to MF/ATF areas.
Select an appropriate cruising altitude.
Use radio navigation aids to determine a fix.

Meteorology

Compare reported weather to forecast weather.
Decode a GFA, METAR, NOTAM, TAF
Describe the weather associated with a TROWAL.
Describe how air masses acquire their properties.
Determine cloud base using a METAR.
Estimate wind direction from a weather chart.
Explain why saturated air cools at a different rate from unsaturated air.
Identify atmospheric lifting processes.
Identify the areas of turbulence associated with mountain waves.
Interpret a weather diagram.
Interpret a significant WX Prog Chart.
Predict the effects of surface friction on wind.
Predict the precipitation at a warm front in winter
Recall cloud classification.
Recall how flight conditions may change while flying through a warm front.
Recognize jet stream speed and turbulence.
Recognize the effect of falling rain on relative humidity.
Recognize the causes of convective turbulence.
State the conditions associated with unstable air.
State the relationship between temperature and moisture content.
State the weather associated with a warm front.
State the effect of temperature on atmospheric pressure level
State the weather changes with frontal passage.

Air Law

Describe the altimeter setting procedures for abnormally high atmospheric pressure,
Determine the end of evening civil twilight
Describe the service provided by ATC to VFR flights in Class C airspace
Explain the implications of unserviceable equipment
Explain the privileges of a Commercial Pilot Licence.
Interpret control tower visual signs
Identify the minimum operational and emergency equipment required on power-drive a/c
Recall the aircraft icing regulations
Recall the flight crewmember qualifications required for a commercial air service.  
Recall the flight duty time regulations for a commercial air service.
Recall the flight instruments required on power-driven aircraft.
Recall the regulations regarding oxygen use.
Recall the requirements for the use of seat/safety-belts and restraint systems.
Recall when an AOC is required.

General

Calculate take-off distance.
Calculate the effect of a load adjustment on the weight and balance.
Calculate the loaded moment of the aircraft and determine if it is within limits.  
Choose control inputs based on turn & bank indications.
Compare laminar flow with high lift aerofoils.
Compare the operation of a turn and bank indicator and a turn coordinator.
Define flying for maximum range
Describe the cause of wake turbulence.
Describe methods to achieve a “clean wing” in winter operations.
Describe the characteristics of wing tip vortices.
Describe the characteristics of aviation fuels and their handling procedures
Describe the forces acting on an aeroplane in a state of equilibrium
Describe the forces acting on a conventional gear aeroplane during take-off.
Describe the operating principles of an attitude indicator.
Describe the indications of an altimeter set to 29.92 in. Hg.
Describe the operation of a mode C transponder.
Describe the operation of a slaved gyro magnetic compass
Describe what affects the coefficient of lift.
Explain how the carburetor works.
Explain how density altitude affects aeroplane performance.
Explain the effect of changing bank angle during a turn.  
Explain the effect of wind on indicated airspeed.
Explain the operation of a constant speed propeller.  
Explain the operation of a turbo-charger.  
Explain the operation of servo tabs.
Explain the operation of the Mode C transponder.  
Explain the purpose of vortex generators
Explain why control surfaces are dynamically balanced.
Explain why a heading indicator must be reset at frequent intervals.
Identify carbon monoxide facts.
Interpret a turn and bank indicator.
Interpret a CFS
Predict the effect of a disconnected static pressure line.  
Predict the sensory illusions that may occur after recovery from a prolonged turn without visual references.
Recall the definition of a stall.
Recall the minimum lighting requirements for night aerodromes.
Recall the weather minima for VFR flight.
Recognize aircraft ground icing dangers.
Recognize the conditions conducive to carburetor icing.
Recognize the effect of falling rain on relative humidity.
State the importance of loading an aircraft to ensure that the Center of Gravity is‘ within limits.  
State the relationship between induced drag and airspeed.
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