Special Missions Aviation (SMA) Block 1 Practice Test

The swashplate is the mechanism that translates pilot inputs into blade pitch changes on the prop-rotor. It transmits those flight control inputs to each prop-rotor hub and blade assembly by converting the pilot’s cyclic and collective commands into precise changes in blade pitch at every blade. A stationary part receives the control inputs, while a rotating part moves with the rotor so that pitch links can push on each blade’s hub to vary its angle, producing the required thrust and attitude changes. It’s not electronics housing, landing gear control, or fuel delivery to the blades.