Aeronautical science is an essential subject in the theoretical training for obtaining an instrument rating (IR). It deals with the technical principles and functionalities of the systems and instruments required for the safe operation of an aircraft. A thorough understanding of these topics is crucial for pilots to be able to interpret aircraft technology correctly and react appropriately in any situation. This article provides an overview of the core content of the subject of aeronautical engineering.
Flight monitoring instruments
Flight monitoring instruments provide the pilot with basic information about the aircraft's attitude, speed, altitude and direction. Some of the instruments are presented below as examples. A detailed and comprehensive examination of all relevant systems takes place during theoretical training.
1. air data instruments
Air data instruments are based on the utilisation of pressure differences caused by the flight of the aircraft.
Significance: Critical for maintaining flight levels and avoiding collisions.
Altimeter (altimeter):
- Function: Measures the ambient pressure and converts it into the corresponding flight altitude.
- Setting: The altimeter must be calibrated to the local air pressure (QNH) or to the standard pressure (1013.25 hPa).
- Significance: Critical for maintaining flight levels and avoiding collisions.
- Airspeed indicator:
- Function: Measures the speed relative to the surrounding air.
- Mode of operation: Utilises the difference between total pressure and static pressure.
- Significance: Important to prevent stalling or structural overloads.
- Variometer (Vertical Speed Indicator):
- Function: Displays the vertical speed (ascent or descent).
- Significance: Essential for controlled climbs and descents and compliance with approach profiles.
- Static and total pressure systems:
- Static pressure: Supplies altimeter, airspeed indicator and variometer.
- Total pressure: Provides the data for the airspeed indicator.
- Sources of error: Icing or clogging of the sensors can cause incorrect displays.
2. gyro instruments
Gyro instruments work on the basis of gyro stability to provide the pilot with attitude and heading information.
- Artificial horizon (Attitude Indicator):
- Function: Displays the flight attitude in relation to the horizontal.
- Mode of operation: Utilises an electrically or pneumatically operated gyroscope.
- Significance: Indispensable in poor visibility conditions and in IFR operations.
- Directional gyro:
- Function: Displays the current direction of the aircraft.
- Deviation: Must be regularly synchronised with the magnetic compass.
- Turn Coordinator:
- Function: Displays the rotation of the aircraft.
- Additional function: Indication of the sliding movement by the ball in the inclination instrument.
3. magnetic compass
The magnetic compass is a simple but important instrument for indicating direction.
- Function: Uses the earth's magnetic field to indicate the direction in relation to true north.
- Sources of error: Deviations due to acceleration, cornering and magnetic interference.
Warning and recording systems
Warning and recording systems help to increase safety and efficiency in flight operations.
- On-board warning systems (Warning Systems):
- Examples: Terrain Avoidance and Warning System (TAWS), Traffic Collision Avoidance System (TCAS).
- Function: Warns the pilot of impending dangers such as approaching the ground or risk of collision.
- Flight data recording:
- Flight Data Recorder (FDR): Records parameters such as speed, altitude and position.
- Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR): Saves conversations in the cockpit and communication with the ATC.
- Significance: Essential for accident investigation and improving flight safety.
Engine and system monitoring instruments
Monitoring the engine and aircraft systems is crucial to ensure safe operation.
- Engine instruments:
- Speed display (RPM): Displays the speed of the engine.
- Oil pressure and temperature indicators: Monitor the condition of the lubrication system.
- Fuel flow meter: Shows the current fuel consumption.
- System instruments:
- Electrical systems: Displays for voltage, current and battery status.
- Hydraulic systems: Monitoring of pressure and fill level.
- Air conditioning and pressurised cabin: Displays for cabin pressure and temperature.
Importance of aeronautical knowledge for IFR pilots
A thorough understanding of the flight control and system instruments is essential for IFR pilots. As they often fly in conditions where there are no external visual references, they must be able to rely completely on the instruments. Incorrect readings or a misunderstanding of the instruments could have serious consequences. The instruments and systems mentioned are exemplary and illustrate the variety of technology on board an aircraft. Comprehensive and in-depth training on all relevant systems is provided as part of the theoretical training.
Conclusion
The subject of aeronautical science provides pilots with a comprehensive basis for understanding the technology and functionality of aircraft systems. It combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications and is therefore an indispensable part of instrument flight pilot training. Precise knowledge of instruments, warning systems and monitoring devices makes a decisive contribution to flight safety and pilot competence.
Source references:
EASA FCL