Attitude Indicator

Question 1

How does the Attitude Indicator work?

Answer 1

The gyro in the Attitude Indicator is mounted on a horizontal plane and depends upon rigidity in space for its operation.

The horizontal bar represents the true horizon and is fixed to the gyro; it remains in a horizontal plane as the airplane is pitched or banked about its lateral or longitudinal axis, indicating the attitude of the airplane relative to the true horizon.

Question 2

What are the limitations of an Attitude Indicator?

Answer 2

Limit depend upon the make and model of the instrument:

Bank limits are usually from 100° to 110°

Pitch limits are usually from 60° to 70°

If either limit is exceeded, the instrument will tumble or spill and will give incorrect indicaitons until restabilized.

Note: Some modern attitude indicators are designed so they will not tumble.

Question 3

Is the Additude Indicator subject to errors?

Answer 3

Attitude Indicators are free from most errors:

There may be a slight nose-up indicaiton during a rapid acceleration

A nose-down indication during a rapid deceleration

There is also a posibility of a small bank angle and pitch error after a 180° turn, the Attitude Indicator will indicate a slight climb and turn in the opposite direction of rollout.

Note: These errors are small and correct themselves within a minute or so after returning to straight and level flight.