CBSE Class 10 English Two Stories About Flying Important Questions Answers

CBSE Important Questions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 3: Chapter 3 of First Flight in CBSE Class 10 English includes the story "Two Stories About Flying", which consists of two parts:

"His First Flight" by Liam O’Flaherty and "Black Aeroplane" by Frederick Forsyth. 

• The first part narrates a young seagull’s struggle and eventual success in taking his first flight, symbolizing fear, hesitation, and courage.
• The second part is a mystery about a pilot who is guided by an unknown airplane through a storm, but later discovers no such plane existed. Both stories emphasize themes of bravery, self-confidence, and the unknown forces that help us in times of need.

Chapter 3 of First Flight, "Two Stories About Flying Important question", is a crucial topic in the  CBSE Class 10 syllabus (English) as it teaches perseverance, courage, and trust in oneself.

"His First Flight" by Liam O’Flaherty highlights overcoming fear, as a young seagull hesitates to fly but eventually succeeds, symbolizing real-life challenges.

 "Black Aeroplane" by Frederick Forsyth presents a mysterious yet inspiring incident where an unknown pilot helps a lost flyer, emphasizing faith and unexpected help in difficult times. These stories encourage students to face fears, take risks, and believe in unseen support, making them valuable life lessons beyond academics.

Two Stories About Flying Important Questions Answers

Prepare smartly with Two Stories About Flying important questions to understand key events, characters, and themes from both stories. These Class 10 questions help strengthen exam readiness and improve conceptual clarity for better scoring.

1. Describe the young seagull's emotions and thoughts as he stands on the edge, preparing for his first flight. What fears might he face, and how does he overcome them?

Sol. The young seagull experienced a mixture of excitement and fear as he stood on the edge of the cliff, contemplating his inaugural flight. Desiring to emulate his siblings, he yearned to soar through the air, feeling the exhilaration of the wind beneath his wings. Yet, simultaneously, he grappled with trepidation.

Concerns plagued his mind: "What if I plunge into the vast sea below? What if my wings fail me?" Despite these apprehensions, the seagull

summoned his courage, drawing inspiration from his siblings' past feats. Observing his mother circling nearby, clutching a fish, intensified his hunger, which battled against his fear.

Eventually, the overwhelming desire to reunite with his family and satiate his hunger propelled him forward. He mustered his courage, closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and leaped off the precipice. As he hurtled through the air, a remarkable transformation occurred – his wings responded, propelling him forward.

 2. How does the family's behavior towards the young seagull change from the beginning to the end of the story, and what does this signify about their intentions?

Sol. At the beginning of the story His First Flight by Liam O’Flaherty, the young seagull’s family is indifferent to his fear of flying. His parents, siblings, and even his younger brother and sister, who have already taken their first flight, mock and scold him for his cowardice.

They deliberately leave him alone on the ledge, refusing to bring him food, in an attempt to force him to fly. By the end of the story, their behavior changes completely. When the young seagull finally takes flight, his family welcomes him with excitement and encouragement.

They fly around him, cheering him on and celebrating his success. This shift in behavior signifies that their earlier harshness was intentional and necessary for his growth. They wanted him to overcome his fear and become independent. Their tough love approach ultimately helps the young seagull discover his potential and gain confidence in his abilities.

3. Reflect on the moment the young seagull makes his first successful flight. What does this moment represent in his life, and how might it affect his future?

Sol. The young seagull's inaugural flight symbolized a seminal moment in his life. Prior to this feat, fear had shackled him, rendering flight an elusive dream. However, as he conquered his trepidation and embraced flight, a profound transformation ensued. Empowered by this triumph, his self- assurance burgeoned, solidifying his position within the familial and communal fabric.

This newfound confidence would serve as a catalyst for future endeavors, propelling him towards exploration and conquest of new challenges. Moreover, his flight signified his assimilation into the avian realm, granting him agency and identity within his environment. Thus, this watershed moment would resonate throughout his existence, shaping his trajectory and defining his legacy.

4. Consider the young seagull's perspective as he first views the vast ocean from above while flying. How might this new perspective change his understanding of the world around him?

Sol. The young seagull's inaugural aerial view of the expansive ocean heralded a paradigm shift in his perception of the world. Formerly confined to the precipice, his purview had been limited, offering a truncated portrayal of reality.

However, soaring above the azure expanse, the ocean unfurled like an endless tapestry, stretching infinitely to the horizon. This panoramic vista instilled a profound awareness of the world's immensity, juxtaposing his diminutive stature against nature's grandeur. Consequently, his comprehension transcended the insularity of his former existence, fostering a newfound curiosity and thirst for exploration.

Enthralled by the boundless possibilities beyond his familiar cliffside, he embarked on a journey of self- discovery, propelled by the allure of the unknown.

5. Discuss the significance of the family offering food to the young seagull after his first flight. What does this act symbolize in terms of family support and recognition of his achievement?

Sol. The act of the family offering food to the young seagull after his first flight symbolizes support, encouragement, and recognition of his achievement. Initially afraid to fly, the young seagull hesitates despite his family’s repeated attempts to push him.

However, when hunger becomes unbearable, he finally takes the leap, discovering the joy and freedom of flying. By offering him food after this milestone, the family acknowledges his courage and perseverance, reinforcing the idea that challenges must be faced to grow and succeed. This act also highlights the importance of family in nurturing independence.

The seagull’s parents and siblings deliberately withhold food earlier, teaching him that survival requires overcoming fear. Once he succeeds, they reward him, showing that families play a crucial role in guiding and celebrating personal growth. This moment reflects real-life situations where parents and mentors push individuals to face their fears, ultimately leading to self-confidence and progress.

 6. Imagine the young seagull's life a few months after his first flight. How might his experiences influence his interactions with his siblings and other young birds?

Sol. In the aftermath of his maiden flight, the young seagull's interactions with his siblings and peers would undoubtedly be informed by his newfound confidence and proficiency in flight.

Empowered by his triumph over fear, he would assume a role of mentorship and guidance, imparting invaluable lessons gleaned from his own journey. His interactions would exude a sense of empathy and understanding, stemming from his firsthand experience of overcoming adversity. Moreover, his aerial prowess would afford him a newfound perspective, fostering a sense of camaraderie and collaboration amongst his peers.

Through his actions and demeanor, he would inspire others to transcend their limitations, catalyzing a collective ethos of resilience and fortitude.

7. How does the young seagull's initial fear of flying reflect common fears faced by individuals when trying new things? Relate this to a human experience.
Sol. The young seagull's initial fear of flying mirrors the common anxieties individuals face when venturing into the unknown. Just as the seagull hesitated, uncertain of his ability to soar, humans often struggle with similar fears when encountering new challenges. Whether it is the dread of public speaking or the fear of failure in mastering a new skill, these apprehensions stem from an inherent discomfort with uncertainty. However, much like the seagull's eventual triumph, people can overcome these obstacles through courage and perseverance. The young bird's first flight marks a shift from fear to exhilaration, just as individuals experience a sense of achievement when they confront their fears. This shared journey of self-discovery highlights the universal nature of human experience and the resilient spirit that drives us toward growth and fulfillment.

8. Reflect on the role of the environment, specifically the ledge and the sea, in the young seagull's journey to his first flight. How do these elements contribute to his story?
Sol. The juxtaposition of the ledge and the sea serves as a poignant backdrop to the young seagull's journey to flight, emblematic of the dichotomy between familiarity and the unknown. The ledge, a symbol of security and confinement, represents the seagull's erstwhile existence, characterized by trepidation and inertia. Conversely, the vast expanse of the sea embodies the allure of the unknown, beckoning the seagull towards uncharted horizons. It is from this precipice of uncertainty that the young seagull musters the courage to defy gravity, propelled by the promise of freedom and self-discovery. Thus, the environment assumes a pivotal role in shaping the narrative arc, catalyzing the young seagull's metamorphosis from fear to exhilaration, from confinement to liberation.

9. What lessons can be drawn from the young seagull's journey from failure to success in his first flight?
Sol. The young seagull's journey from failure to success in his inaugural flight imparts several invaluable lessons on resilience, courage, and self-discovery. Foremost amongst these is the imperative of perseverance in the face of adversity. Despite initial setbacks and apprehensions, the seagull persisted in his quest for flight, undeterred by the Specter of failure. Moreover, his triumph underscores the transformative power of courage, illuminating the path from fear to exhilaration. Through his journey, he discovers that the greatest growth often emerges from the crucible of uncertainty, forging an indomitable spirit that propels him towards future conquests. Thus, his odyssey serves as a testament to the human capacity for resilience and self-actualization, inspiring others to pursue their aspirations with unwavering determination.

10. Describe the evolution of the family's behaviour towards the young seagull as he learns to fly. How does this reflect the parental role in fostering growth and independence?
Sol. Initially, the family's behaviour towards the young seagull may appear austere, characterized by tough love and encouragement towards self-reliance. Rather than coddling him, they challenge him to confront his fears and embrace autonomy, recognizing that true growth emerges from trial and error. This approach, though seemingly harsh, underscores their unwavering commitment to his development, instilling resilience and fortitude. However, as the young seagull achieves flight, their demeanour softens, revealing a profound sense of pride and support. Through their actions, they impart a crucial lesson – that parental love is not synonymous with indulgence, but rather with the cultivation of strength and self-assurance. Thus, their evolution reflects the delicate balance between fostering independence and providing guidance, essential components of parental stewardship in nurturing future generations.

11. Consider the potential consequences if the young seagull had not succeeded in his first flight attempt. How might the family's approach to encouraging him to fly have differed, and what impact could this have on his development?
Sol. Had the young seagull faltered in his first flight attempt, the family's approach to encouraging him would likely have shifted towards a more compassionate and patient method. Rather than employing tough love and coercion, they would adopt a nurturing stance, emphasizing incremental progress and building confidence gradually. Such an approach would mitigate the risk of demoralization and instill a sense of resilience in the face of failure. Moreover, the young seagull's development may have been enriched by the experience of overcoming adversity, fostering a deeper appreciation for the value of perseverance and determination. Thus, while failure may have posed temporary setbacks, it would ultimately serve as a catalyst for growth and self-discovery, shaping the young seagull's character and fortifying him for future challenges.

12. Reflect on the challenges the young seagull might face as he explores new places beyond his familiar cliffside. How might these challenges contribute to his growth and development?
Sol. As the young seagull ventures beyond the confines of his familiar cliffside, he will inevitably encounter a myriad of challenges that test his resilience and adaptability. Adverse weather conditions, predacious threats, and unfamiliar food sources may present formidable obstacles to his survival. However, it is through these challenges that he will experience exponential growth and development. Each trial will serve as a crucible for learning, honing his instincts and sharpening his skills. Moreover, the diversity of experiences he accrues will broaden his perspective, fostering empathy and understanding towards creatures different from himself. Thus, while the journey may be fraught with peril, it is through adversity that the young seagull will emerge stronger and more resilient, poised to conquer the boundless expanse of the sky.

13. How might the young seagull share the lessons learned from his first flight with future generations? Consider the impact of his story on others who may face similar challenges.
Sol. The young seagull's story of triumph over fear and adversity would undoubtedly resonate with future generations, inspiring them to confront their own challenges with courage and resilience. Through his recounting of his journey, he would impart invaluable lessons on the transformative power of perseverance and determination, illustrating that the greatest growth often emerges from the crucible of uncertainty. Moreover, his tale would serve as a testament to the indomitable spirit of the human (or avian) condition, igniting a spark of hope and inspiration in the hearts of those who face similar trials. Thus, the young seagull's narrative would endure as a beacon of resilience and fortitude, guiding generations to come towards the boundless expanse of possibility that lies beyond their fears.

14. The storyteller exerted every effort to preserve himself. Even in dire circumstances, he never gave up. What principles enabled him to bravely weather the dire circumstances? Talk about in 100–120 words.

OR

The narrator persisted even after realizing that the storm and fuel shortage would prevent him from taking off. What sort of individual was he? Did he not have the disposition to concede defeat? In 100–120 words, talk about the values that one needs to have in order to accept failures and go forward in life.

Sol. The author's aircraft lacked sufficient fuel. He was aware that he could not fly over the clouds or around them to the north or south due to a lack of fuel. But then, wanting to get home and be with his family for breakfast, he made the risky decision to take off in his plane and land it in the clouds. This demonstrates his love for his family. He showed bravery by venturing into the clouds even though he knew it would be dangerous and did so to conserve fuel.

15. Your friend was a pilot who got lost in the storm clouds while flying from Paris to England. Tell your family about his ordeal and how the strange black plane and its pilot saved him.
Sol. Indeed. My friend, a pilot, had an unexplained experience last week. He got lost in the storm clouds on his flight from Paris to England. His radio, compass, and other instruments were dead. He was unsure of which way to go. He was disoriented and overly terrified. Subsequently, he noticed an odd black aircraft with no lights on its wings approaching his own aircraft. With one hand raised, the pilot gestured for my friend to follow him. He directed my When my friend turned to thank the black airplane's pilot, he couldn't find the pilot or the aircraft. Instead, the friend saw my friend through the storm clouds and helped him land safely. When he inquired about the strange black plane and its pilot with the control. The response was that only his Dakota was visible on the radar. Who then came to his aid? An answer was not forthcoming. It remained a mystery.

16. Things were going smoothly. The flight was simple. What abruptly went wrong?

OR

Describe the Dakota plane's journey up to its safe landing at the airport.
Sol. Old Dakota took off from Paris on a flight that was bound for England. The weather was nice and the sky was clear, making the flight effortless. Just 150 kilometres from Paris, it was met with massive black storm clouds. Only enough fuel would get him to England. He had the option to return to Paris, but he chose to go through the storm clouds and take the risk because he wanted to spend the holiday with his family. Pitch day, as the storm clouds would have it. His radio, compass, and a few other gadgets stopped functioning. He couldn't get in touch with the Paris control room to find out the way. He saw a black airplane out of nowhere. He was safely guided out of storm clouds by its pilot. He arrived at the airport and saw the runway.

17. In closing, the author poses the query, "Who was the pilot on the strange black aeroplane?" Try to respond to this query.
Sol. The story of "The Black Aeroplane" is intriguing. Author is a pilot. He was flying his Dakota back from France one day. He was leaving for England. He saw massive storm clouds approaching him abruptly. He didn't have much fuel in his aircraft. He was therefore unable to fly over the clouds. Taking a chance, he stepped into the clouds. His instruments, including his compass, failed. His radio malfunctioned as well. There was a risk to the writer's life. Abruptly, he noticed a black airplane in the vicinity. The aircraft's pilot motioned for him to follow. The author trailed him and successfully made his landing. However, he could not locate the black airplane anywhere when he turned to look back. He was informed that night that there had been no other plane by the woman working at the control tower. Who then prevented the writer from dying? Who flew the aircraft with the black paint job? To these questions, the writer had no response. It is a mysterious story as a result.

18. In what way was the author saved?
Sol. Indeed. The author took off into a mass of black clouds. Just as he was entering the clouds, the entire scene darkened. He discovered that his compass was no longer functional. He attempted to get directions from the Paris Control. To his surprise, though, his radio had also given up on him. Abruptly, the author noticed a black plane approaching him. He could see the pilot in it as well. The writer was waved to follow the pilot. Like a dutiful child, he trailed the black aeroplane behind. It had been thirty minutes since the writer had followed the black airplane. The fuel in his plane could only last five or ten minutes, so he was concerned. However, right then, the black aeroplane began to descend, and the author followed it. The writer was suddenly free of the doods. He was able to see the airport's runway lights. The author made a landing in his Dakota. It was in May that he was saved.

19. There were two ways the narrator could get away from those awful storm clouds. How come he didn't use them? Was it a wise choice for him to fly directly into storm clouds? Give a thoughtful response.
Sol. All around him, the narrator could see mountains of black clouds. These clouds were storm clouds. He could dodge the awful storm clouds by utilizing his two options. He was free to return to Paris. He was 150 kilometres away from Paris now. Despite his desire to return, he gave in to the temptation of eating an early breakfast at home. Neither could he fly above the storm clouds. There was not enough fuel for him to fly north or south around them. It appears that returning to Paris by plane would have been the wisest choice under those conditions. He didn't have enough fuel in the second tank, so he was unable to fly north or south of the storm. A hearty English breakfast with his family had preceded his decision to fly directly into the storm clouds. It was a brave but dangerous choice. If the pilot of the unusual black aircraft hadn't assisted him in getting to safety, he would have been in serious danger.

20. Within the strange black aeroplane, who was the rescuer? Did the woman in the control room provide the narrator with any information about the man who assisted him in making a safe landing?
Sol. When the narrator had lost all radio contact with Paris control, who came to his rescue? Who was the black airplane's pilot who assisted the narrator in making a safe landing without a radio, compass, or plenty of fuel? These were still unanswered mysteries. On that stormy night, the only plane visible on the radar was the old Dakota, even for the woman working in the control room. The enigmatic pilot of the dark aircraft acted as the narrator's safe landing assist, akin to divine intervention. The storyteller was real problems prior to the enigmatic black aircraft getting close to him. Ahead of him lay mountains of black clouds that had lost him. To exacerbate matters, his compass died. The other instruments also stopped working. The radio was dead, so he was unable to get in touch with Paris control. Only God knows what might have happened to him if the black airplane's pilot hadn't led him to safety by navigating through storm clouds.

CBSE Important Questions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 3 PDF

Below, we have provided a PDF of Important Questions for CBSE Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 3 – "Two Stories About Flying." This chapter includes "His First Flight" by Liam O’Flaherty and "Black Aeroplane" by Frederick Forsyth, which teach valuable lessons on courage and faith.

The PDF contains exam-focused questions, including short and long answers, to help students prepare effectively. Download the PDF for better revision!

CBSE Important Questions for Class 10 English First Flight Chapter 3 PDF

Why Practice Important Questions for Class 10 English Chapter 3: Two Stories About Flying

Practicing Two Stories About Flying important questions from Class 10 English First Flight helps students prepare smarter and faster:

1. Understand Key Themes – Learn courage, fear, determination, and resilience.

2. Exam-Ready Practice – Questions follow the Class 10 exam pattern for better preparation.

3. Improve Answer Writing – Learn to write clear and structured answers for short, long, and value-based questions.

4. Boost Confidence – Repeated practice reduces stress and improves time management.

5. NCERT-Aligned – Covers all important excerpts and incidents, perfect for Class 10 notes and revision.

Using the important questions of Two Stories About Flying ensures focused study and higher chances of scoring well.

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