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

Pilot Institute

NOVEMBER 1, 2024

It can also disrupt sensors needed for flight safety, like the pitot tubes. If ice blocks a pitot tube, your aircraft’s instruments will provide inaccurate airspeed readings. Most aircraft are equipped with a pitot heater to prevent icing in the pitot tube. But how dangerous is it?

Pitot Tube 52

Pitot Tube Drag Lift Airfoil 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

Vintage Aviation News

DECEMBER 26, 2024

Air Force, in the cockpit of Convair F-106A Delta Dart 56-0467, at Edwards AFB, December 15, 1959, following his world speed record. Foust would describe the incident thusly: “The aircraft looked like the pitot tube was stationary with the aircraft rotating around it. Rogers set a world speed record of 1,525.96

Pitot Tube 59

Pitot Tube Ground Effect Drag Pilot 59