Aircraft Systems

Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior

FAA Ref: FAA-S-ACS-6C Area I Task G (Operation of Systems)

Scenario & Physics Summary

When pitot ram intake AND drain hole block completely, the Airspeed Indicator acts like an ALTIMETER—indicating higher speed in climb and lower speed in descent.

Interactive 3D Visual Plates & Scenario Media

Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior Plate 1

Plate 1: Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior

Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior Plate 2

Plate 2: Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior

Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior Plate 3

Plate 3: Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior

Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior Plate 4

Plate 4: Pitot Tube Blockage (Drain Hole Blocked) Airspeed Indicator Behavior

Aerodynamic & Operational Physics

ASI measures total pressure minus static pressure (q = P_total - P_static).
If pitot ram & drain freeze shut, trapped pressure in pitot line remains constant.
As aircraft climbs, ambient static pressure decreases. P_total (trapped) minus P_static (decreasing) increases, making ASI over-indicate airspeed during climb.

FAA Exam Gotcha Alert

FAA Exam Trap: A completely blocked pitot tube makes the Airspeed Indicator read HIGH in a climb, tricking the pilot into pitching UP and stalling the airplane!

Frequently Asked Questions & Exam Explanations

How does a blocked pitot tube behave during a climb?

It acts like an altimeter: as altitude increases, indicated airspeed falsely increases, creating a dangerous stall trap.

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