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What Does a Pitot Tube Do on an Airplane?

Thrust Flight

The pitot tube, which is part of the pitot-static system, is one of the main systems that makes those flight instruments work. Here’s a detailed look at the pitot, the static, and the system, including what’s connected to what and why. What Is the Pitot-Static System? appeared first on Thrust Flight.

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The Classic Boeing Airspeed Indicator

AeroSavvy

Ram air from a pitot tube and static (undisturbed) outside air from a static port, usually a hole on the side of the fuselage. Airspeed indicators need air from a pitot tube and static air from a static port Small general aviation aircraft have airspeed indicators with air hoses connected directly to the pitot and static sources.

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Dealing with volcanic ash

Professional Pilot

It can also become lodged in pitot tubes or other ports, making altitude and airspeed readings unreliable. Climbing is not advised, as thrust should be reduced (if able) to mitigate the risk of melted ash depositing in the turbine chamber, and airspeed readings may be unreliable. Ash has been known to contaminate fuel.