What is the function of Flight Control Computers and flight control laws in a narrowbody?

• A. They translate pilot inputs into control surface movements, applying protections and stability logic.
• B. They manage in-flight entertainment systems.
• C. They adjust landing gear retraction.
• D. They control cabin lighting.

Answer: (A)

The main function being tested is how the Flight Control Computers and flight control laws translate what the pilot asks for into actual control surface movements while applying protections and stability logic. In a narrowbody with fly-by-wire, your stick or side stick position becomes a command that the flight control computer interprets through predefined flight laws. Those laws determine not only how surfaces move, but also how the aircraft behaves within safe limits. They include envelope protections that prevent excessive angles, bank, or loads, stall protections tied to angle of attack, and speed-related safeguards that keep you from overstressing the airplane. If the system detects abnormal conditions, it can adjust or constrain commands to maintain safe flight, and in degraded situations it may switch to a backup or direct mode with reduced protections.

In short, these computers and laws are responsible for turning your inputs into coordinated surface movements while automatically enforcing safety and stability rules to keep the aircraft within its safe flight envelope. The other options describe systems that are unrelated to flight control: in-flight entertainment, landing gear retraction, and cabin lighting.