A heading indicator is a flight instrument that informs the pilot of the aircraft’s direction. It is more accurate and reliable than a magnetic compass and can integrate additional information. However, it requires readjustments and is subject to errors.
Fitted to most modern aircraft cockpits, a heading indicator is a flight instrument designed to inform the pilot of the direction in which the aircraft is heading. A heading indicator is an improvement over the basic magnetic compass and provides greater accuracy, greater reliability, and an easy-to-read face. There are many types of heading indicators with varying degrees of accuracy and cost; they range from basic vacuum powered gauges to highly advanced GPS enabled gauges. A simple heading indicator requires readjustments every 10 to 20 minutes or so, while more sophisticated equipment, such as the heading indicators found on jet aircraft, use precision laser technology.
Generally speaking, heading indicators are round dials that represent north, south, east, and west by using a 360° compass. For example, North would read 360°, while East would read 90°. Aircraft must have a heading indicator installed and operational prior to flight in instrument conditions, although they are often optional during clear-weather flight. More sophisticated aircraft have heading indicators that integrate additional information such as navigational cues, terrain warnings, and air traffic alerts. Aircraft with Global Positioning System (GPS) technology often have the ability to overlay the proposed flight path on the indicator screen.
A basic heading indicator cannot determine direction on its own and requires the pilot to enter the initial heading of the aircraft when starting the aircraft. Heading indicators use a gyroscope, a disk that spins at very high speeds powered by the aircraft’s vacuum system. Unfortunately, like any moving part, the heading indicator is subject to error as a result of friction. As the gyroscope rotates, it rubs against other parts within the instrument, causing readings to lose accuracy over time and requiring corrective action by the pilot. More sophisticated heading indicators have eliminated this error by installing internal direction finding equipment.
The benefits of a heading indicator over the traditional magnetic compass include increased situational awareness for the pilot, greater accuracy for long-distance navigation, and general ease of use. Magnetic compasses are often difficult to read and are only effective during straight and level flight, while heading indicators can convey accurate information at all times. It is important to note that, on most aircraft, the heading indicator is driven by the aircraft’s vacuum system; If the system fails, so does the instrument. Negatives include higher maintenance costs, instrument errors, and the need for additional pilot training.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
