See What the Test Looks Like
Here are sample questions from our SIFT Army Aviation Information practice tests. Each question comes with a detailed explanation so you understand the reasoning, not just the answer.
40 questions in 30 minutes. The only knowledge-based SIFT subtest — master rotary-wing aerodynamics, Army helicopter recognition, and flight regulations.
This subtest covers knowledge of rotary-wing (helicopter) aerodynamics, U.S. Army aviation operations, aircraft systems, flight regulations, and helicopter-specific concepts. Unlike Air Force tests that focus on fixed-wing aviation, the SIFT emphasizes Army rotary-wing aviation since Army aviators primarily fly helicopters.
The Army Aviation Information Test (AAIT) is unique among SIFT subtests because it tests domain-specific knowledge rather than cognitive abilities. You have 30 minutes to answer 40 questions covering rotary-wing aerodynamics, Army helicopter recognition, flight regulations, navigation, and aircraft systems.
Unlike the AFOQT's Aviation Information subtest, which covers both fixed-wing and rotary-wing topics, the SIFT's AAIT focuses exclusively on helicopters. This reflects the U.S. Army's mission: Army aviators fly rotary-wing aircraft (helicopters), not fixed-wing planes. Questions cover how helicopters generate lift, autorotation procedures, Army rotorcraft specifications, airspace regulations, and basic instrument interpretation.
With about 45 seconds per question, AAIT gives you time to think — but you must know the material. This is the only SIFT subtest where prior study and aviation knowledge directly impact your score. AAIT is one of seven subtests that collectively produce your SIFT score (scored 20–80).
Here are sample questions from our SIFT Army Aviation Information practice tests. Each question comes with a detailed explanation so you understand the reasoning, not just the answer.
| Questions | 40 |
| Time Limit | 30 minutes |
| Time per Question | ~45 seconds |
| Format | Computer-based, multiple choice |
| Scoring | Number correct |
| Adaptive? | No — fixed question set |
Key detail: AAIT is not adaptive. Every candidate sees the same 40 questions. With 45 seconds per question, you have time to read carefully and think through each answer.
AAIT assesses knowledge of rotary-wing aviation fundamentals and Army-specific operations.
Principles of helicopter flight: lift, thrust, drag, autorotation, translational lift, ground effect, retreating blade stall, and dissymmetry of lift.
Knowledge of current Army rotorcraft: AH-64 Apache, UH-60 Black Hawk, CH-47 Chinook, OH-58 Kiowa, and their roles and capabilities.
Airspace classifications, VFR/IFR rules, Army aviation-specific regulations, standard terminology, and communication procedures.
Compass reading, chart interpretation, altimeter settings, gyroscopic instruments, and basic helicopter instrument panel layout.
Know each aircraft's mission, crew size, engine type, and distinguishing features. The AH-64 Apache (attack), UH-60 Black Hawk (utility), and CH-47 Chinook (heavy lift) appear frequently.
Understand how a helicopter generates lift differently from a fixed-wing aircraft. Focus on autorotation, translational lift, effective translational lift (ETL), and retreating blade stall — these are high-frequency topics.
Review basic airspace classes (A through G), VFR weather minimums, and standard Army aviation procedures. The FAA Helicopter Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-21B) is an excellent free resource.
TC 3-04.4 (Fundamentals of Flight) and related publications are written for the exact audience this test targets. They cover aerodynamics, emergency procedures, and systems in Army-specific context.
With 45 seconds per question, you have time to think. Focus on understanding concepts, not memorization. If you understand WHY a helicopter enters autorotation, you can answer any question about it.
The Army Aviation Information Test (AAIT) has 40 questions in 30 minutes. It covers rotary-wing aerodynamics, Army helicopter recognition, flight regulations, and navigation fundamentals. It's the only SIFT subtest that tests domain-specific aviation knowledge.
Primarily helicopters. The U.S. Army's aviation branch is rotary-wing focused. Questions cover helicopter aerodynamics (autorotation, translational lift, etc.), Army rotorcraft (Apache, Black Hawk, Chinook), and helicopter-specific systems.
The FAA Helicopter Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-21B), Army TC 3-04.4 (Fundamentals of Flight), and SIFT-specific prep books. Also study the Army's current helicopter fleet — missions, specs, and identifying features.
All 7 subtests contribute to your composite SIFT score, but AAIT is unique because it directly tests aviation knowledge. Strong AAIT performance signals genuine interest in and preparation for Army aviation.
Build your rotary-wing knowledge with SIFT practice tests and study resources.