Flight Operations
- Review Aerodynamics & Airplane Systems
- 1.1Explain the four forces which act on an airplane in flight
- 1.2Explain the angle of attack- Commercial Pilot-Aerodynamics and Performance
- 1.3Explain the basics of Aerodynamics
- 1.4Explain drag
- 1.5Explain thrust, stability, and center of gravity
- 1.6Explain weight and balance
- 1.7Demonstrate knowledge of aircraft components
- Pressure, Temperature & Density
- Weather
- 3.1Identify and explain the structure of the earth’s layers of the atmosphere, and become knowledgeable of the history of the study of meteorology
- 3.2Describe atmospheric conditions using appropriate weather terminology
- 3.3Demonstrate an understanding of frontal systems
- 3.4Demonstrate an understanding of wind speed, temperature, pressure & dew point
- 3.5Employ meteorological terminology and coding procedures
- 3.6Identify air masses and monitor daily weather phenomena
- 3.7Demonstrate an understanding of synoptic weather structure
- Weather Forecasting
- Weather Hazards
- Weather Tools
- IFR
- IFR
- IFR Navigation
IFR Review
Review of Basic Flight Instruments
Instrument in the cockpit of an aircraft that provides the pilot with information about the flight situation of that aircraft.
In the world of aviation, the six basic flight instruments are the backbone of a pilot's navigation toolkit. These instruments provide the pilot with essential information about the aircraft's attitude, altitude, speed, and direction. This article will revisit each of these instruments, their importance, and their function in maintaining aircraft control and navigation. We will also discuss common errors and malfunctions in flight instruments and how to identify them.
Airspeed Indicator
The Airspeed Indicator measures the speed of the aircraft relative to the surrounding air. It is crucial for maintaining control of the aircraft, as flying too slow can lead to a stall, while flying too fast can cause structural damage.
Attitude Indicator
The Attitude Indicator, also known as the artificial horizon, shows the aircraft's orientation relative to the earth's horizon. It displays pitch (up and down) and roll (side to side) and is especially useful when visual references are not available, such as during instrument flight.
Altimeter
The Altimeter measures the aircraft's altitude, or height above sea level. It is vital for maintaining safe separation from terrain and other aircraft, especially during climb and descent.
Vertical Speed Indicator
The Vertical Speed Indicator, or VSI, shows how fast the aircraft is climbing or descending. This information is crucial for managing the aircraft's energy and maintaining a stable approach to landing.
Heading Indicator
The Heading Indicator displays the aircraft's compass heading. It is gyro-stabilized to provide a more stable reference than the magnetic compass, especially during turns.
Turn Coordinator
The Turn Coordinator shows the rate and direction of the aircraft's turn. It also provides indirect information about the aircraft's balance, helping the pilot to maintain coordinated flight.
Identifying Instrument Errors and Malfunctions
Flight instruments are generally reliable, but they can and do fail. It's important for pilots to regularly cross-check their instruments and be aware of the symptoms of common failures. For example, a sudden drop in airspeed could indicate an instrument failure, or it could mean the aircraft is about to stall. Similarly, a spinning heading indicator could mean the gyro has failed, or it could indicate a steep, uncoordinated turn.
In conclusion, a thorough understanding of the basic flight instruments and their potential errors is essential for safe and efficient aircraft operation. By regularly reviewing this knowledge, pilots can ensure they are prepared to handle any situation they may encounter in the cockpit.