Pitot-Static Checks

Pitot Tube:

• • The pitot tube is mounted on the aircraft’s exterior, typically on the wing or fuselage.
  • It faces into the relative wind (the direction of oncoming air).
  • The tube has a small opening that allows impact air pressure (also known as ram air pressure) to enter.

• • • The static ports are attached to the aircraft’s fuselage.
    • These ports capture static air pressure, which remains relatively constant regardless of the aircraft’s motion.
    • Static ports are usually located away from areas with airflow disturbances (such as near the wingtips).

Pressure Differential:

• • As the aircraft moves through the air, the pitot tube captures the dynamic pressure caused by oncoming air.
  • This dynamic pressure increases with the aircraft’s speed.
  • The static ports provide a reference for ambient static pressure.

• • • The difference between dynamic pressure (from the pitot tube) and static pressure (from the static ports) is the pitot-static pressure differential.
    • This differential pressure is used to calculate the aircraft’s airspeed.
    • The airspeed indicator in the cockpit displays this calculated value.

Calculating Altitude:

• • • • The static pressure from the static ports determines the aircraft’s altitude.
      • The altimeter measures the difference between ambient static pressure and a standard pressure at sea level.
      • As the aircraft climbs or descends, the altimeter adjusts accordingly.

• • • Visually inspect the pitot tube and static ports for blockages, damage or debris.
    • Ensure Secure connections and fittings.

• • • Confirm that the pitot and static system are leak-free.
    • Pressurize the pitot system and create a vacuum in that static system. This can be done with Laversab Pitot-Static test system and adapters.

• • • Connect a Pitot-Static test system through aircraft adapters to the static port.
    • Simulate various altitudes to test the system’s accuracy.

• • • Connect a pitot-static tester to the pitot tubes through aircraft adapters. Depending on the aircraft, there may more that one pitot tube.
    • Use the pitot-static tester to create a pressure differential between the ram pressure and static pressure. This will simulate airspeed.
    • Blockages due to FOD, insects, or ice can affect accuracy.
    • Consult the aircraft’s manual for error correction.