Definition of Air Speed Indicator (ASI)
The Air Speed Indicator, commonly known as ASI, is a pitot-static flight instrument designed to measure and display the airspeed of an aircraft. It is an essential tool for pilots as it provides information about the speed of the aircraft in miles per hour or knots, or both. The ASI is crucial for maintaining safe and efficient flight as it helps the pilot to monitor and adjust the rate of movement of the aircraft through the air mass.
The ASI works by sensing the difference between the pressure of the air entering the pitot tube and the static pressure acting on the static port. The pitot tube is positioned on the nose of the aircraft and is designed to receive the impact force of the incoming air, while the static port is located on the side of the aircraft and receives the static pressure of the air mass. The ASI measures the difference in air pressure between these two points, and this information is then converted into the airspeed of the aircraft.
The ASI provides real-time and accurate information about the airspeed of the aircraft, allowing the pilot to make necessary adjustments to maintain a safe and stable flight. The ASI is an essential instrument in commercial and private aircraft, and it is a crucial component in maintaining safe and efficient air travel.
« Back to Glossary Index