IR.II.B.K1aFAA-S-ACS-8C · Nov 2023Knowledge
a. Pitot-static instrument system and associated instruments
Operation of the aircraft’s applicable flight instrument system(s), including: a. Pitot-static instrument system and associated instruments
Bottom line
The pitot-static system uses static air pressure and dynamic pressure from the aircraft's motion through the air to operate the airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator. Partial static system blockage may go unrecognized until a critical phase of flight, with no indication of malfunction until the airplane begins a descent.
FAA references
- PHAK ch. 8 (p. 8-1) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- AFH ch. 18 (pp. 18-14–18-15) — FAA-H-8083-3C
- IFH ch. 5 (p. 5-2) — FAA-H-8083-15B
- PHAK ch. 8 (p. 8-2) — FAA-H-8083-25C (2023)
- IFH ch. 11 (p. 11-8) — FAA-H-8083-15B
- 14 CFR 91.411 (Altimeter system and altitude reporting equipment tests and inspections.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
- 14 CFR 91.205 (Powered civil aircraft with standard U.S. airworthiness certificates: Instrument and equipment requirements.) — eCFR current as of 2026-03-05
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