Pilot Institute

DECEMBER 12, 2024

These two simple features power three of the most important cockpit instruments. This setup is called the pitot-static system. In this article, well break down how the pitot-static system works, what it measures, and why its so important. Key Takeaways The pitot-static system measures airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed.

Pitot Tube 97

Pitot Tube Altimeter Airplanes Descent 97

iPad Pilot News

AUGUST 20, 2024

In addition to a 3D view of terrain and obstacles this shows glass cockpit-style tapes for speed and altitude, making it an excellent backup tool in case of panel avionics failure. Most pilots think about pressure, since we’re constantly adjusting the altimeter setting, but even that isn’t enough to explain the difference.

Altimeter 111

Altimeter Indicated Airspeed Pitot Tube Groundspeed 111

AeroSavvy

OCTOBER 26, 2020

Airlines are upgrading older cockpits with newer displays, so this old indicator will soon become a relic. Ram air from a pitot tube and static (undisturbed) outside air from a static port, usually a hole on the side of the fuselage. The instrument provides pilots with a surprising amount of information.

Pitot Tube 52

Pitot Tube Indicated Airspeed Knot Altimeter 52

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 16, 2024

Combining the data shown on your cockpit instruments helps you make better judgments. One example is Indicated Airspeed (IAS), which is the airspeed you read directly from cockpit instruments. It works by reading the difference between static pressure and total pressure from air flowing into a pitot tube.

True Airspeed 52

True Airspeed Indicated Airspeed Altimeter Lift 52