Speed, distance, and time math tests assess a pilot applicant's ability to apply elementary mathematics fluently without unit errors.1 These tests cover mental math and applied numeracy, focusing on solving practical flight and navigation problems quickly without a calculator.2 Core topics include fractions, percentages, the area and volume of simple shapes, Pythagoras' theorem, and converting between metric and imperial units.23 They involve basic relationships between distance, speed, time, and fuel mass.24

A flight school's COMPASS test in 2022 included a maths section with 24 questions to be completed in 20 minutes.1 Other mathematics tests in selection processes consist of 16 multiple-choice questions in 30 minutes, 20 multiple-choice questions in 45 minutes, or 20 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes.1 One exam format has 18 multiple-choice questions with a 60-minute time limit.2 Another version presents 16 multiple-choice questions over 30 minutes.2

Knowledge tests are one of three classifications of tests that cadet applicants take.5 Many problems are set in practical flying situations involving fuel, speed, and distance.3 Candidates should refresh their GCSE or equivalent level formulas and concepts and practise mental calculations for these tests.5 The exam questions test whether candidates apply rules of thumb correctly and work with clear units.4 A common pitfall is mixing up units, such as kilometers per hour and knots, or liters and kilograms, where specific gravity is needed for conversion.4

These evaluations cover physics concepts such as Newton's laws, speed calculations, acceleration and free fall, and converting volume to mass. Knowledge tests also measure a candidate's understanding of subjects like physics and English.5 Austro ATPL examinations require sine and cosine functions for determining crosswind and headwind components on the runway, and a flight computer such as the CRP-5 is needed for navigation problems involving greater true airspeeds.