Which system minimizes the effects of hydroplaning?

• A. An anti-skid system
• B. A turbocharger
• C. An elevator trim system
• D. A pitot-static heater

Answer: (A)

On wet pavements, water can lift the tire off the surface, reducing traction and making it easy to lose control if braking locks the wheels. An anti-skid system prevents wheel lock by automatically modulating brake pressure, so the wheels keep turning and you maintain steering control while braking. That ability to keep the tires rolling and avoid skidding directly reduces the disruptive effects hydroplaning can cause, giving you the best chance to manage the airplane safely on a wet runway. The other systems don’t address braking and steering on wet surfaces: a turbocharger changes engine power, an elevator trim system adjusts pitch, and a pitot-static heater prevents airspeed errors from icing.