Month: March 2025

A simple definition for a pitot tube is a device used to measure the speed of a fluid, usually air. Pitot tubes are crucial for aircraft. They feed data to the airspeed indicator, which informs pilots as to how fast they’re flying relative to the surrounding air. A blocked or malfunctioning pitot tube can lead to incorrect readings, which can create serious flight safety risks. Pitot tubes are an important part on every aircraft. Understanding How a Pitot Tube Works Understanding the Two Key Openings in a Prandtl Pitot Tube: Front-facing (impact) opening (hole): Also known as the ram air inlet, this measures total pressure (also called stagnation pressure). This is the pressure felt when air is brought to a … Read more

Aircraft lighting plays a critical role in aviation safety and operation. Lighting helps pilots navigate and communicate. Proper lighting is required to comply with FAA and ICAO regulations. From anti-collision lights to position lights, each system serves a unique function. Proper lights on aircraft ensure both commercial pilots and military aviators can fly safely in all conditions. In this guide, I examine the history, importance, and aspects of aircraft lighting while providing a guide for aviation enthusiasts, mechanics, and pilots. Types of Aircraft Lights and Their Roles There are two main types of aircraft lighting: interior and exterior. Interior lighting improves visibility inside the cabin and cockpit, and exterior lighting enhances safety by making aircraft visible in the sky and … Read more