What do magnetos do?

• A. Magnetos generate high voltage to spark the spark plugs.
• B. They regulate fuel flow to the engine.
• C. They power the aircraft's electrical system when the alternator fails.
• D. They control the aircraft's hydraulic system.

Answer: (A)

Magnetos are part of the aircraft’s ignition system. They generate the high voltage needed to fire the spark plugs, delivering a spark at the precise moment to ignite the air–fuel mixture in each cylinder. This ignition happens independently of the aircraft’s battery or alternator, because magnetos are engine-driven and self-contained, which is why starting and running can occur even if electrical power is lost. They do not regulate fuel flow, power the electrical system, or control hydraulic systems.