IFH 6-5

Figure 6-5. Attitude indicator. 30.0 29.9 29.8 Figure 6-6. Pitch correction using the attitude indicator. 30.0 29.9 29.8 Figure 6-7. Pitch correction using the altimeter. Altimeter If the aircraft is maintaining level flight, the altimeter needles maintain a constant indication of altitude. If the altimeter indicates a loss of altitude, the pitch attitude must be adjusted upward to stop the descent. If the altimeter indicates a gain in altitude, the pitch attitude must be adjusted downward to stop the climb. [Figure 6-7] The altimeter can also indicate the pitch attitude in a climb or descent by how rapidly the needles move. A minor adjustment in pitch attitude may be made to control the rate at which altitude is gained or lost. Pitch attitude is used only to correct small altitude changes caused by external forces, such as turbulence or up and down drafts. Vertical Speed Indicator (VSI) In flight at a constant altitude, the VSI (sometimes referred to as vertical velocity indicator or rate-of-climb indicator) remains at zero. If the needle moves above zero, the pitch attitude must be adjusted downward to stop the climb and return to level flight. Prompt adjustments to the changes in the indications of the VSI can prevent any significant change in altitude. [Figure 6-8] Turbulent air causes the needle to fluctuate near zero. In such conditions, the average of the The miniature aircraft should be placed in the proper position in relation to the horizon bar or horizon line before takeoff. The aircraft operator’s manual explains this position. As soon as practicable in level flight and at desired cruise airspeed, the miniature aircraft should be moved to a position that aligns its wings in front of the horizon bar or horizon line. This adjustment can be made any time varying loads or other conditions indicate a need. Otherwise, the position of the miniature aircraft should not be changed for flight at other than cruise speed. This is to make sure that the attitude indicator displays a true picture of pitch attitude in all maneuvers. When using the attitude indicator in applying pitch attitude corrections, control pressure should be extremely light. Movement of the horizon bar above or below the miniature aircraft of the attitude indicator in an airplane should not exceed one-half the bar width. [Figure 6-6] If further change is required, an additional correction of not more than one-half horizon bar wide normally counteracts any deviation from normal flight.