What does the ground speed indicator show?

What does the ground speed indicator show?

• A. The speed of the aircraft relative to the air
• B. The speed of the aircraft relative to the ground
• C. The speed at which the engines are running
• D. The average speed of the aircraft over the last few minutes

Answer: (B)

The ground speed indicator shows the speed of the aircraft relative to the ground. This measurement is crucial for various operational aspects, such as navigation and fuel calculations. Ground speed takes into account not only the aircraft's propulsion but also the effects of wind. For example, if an aircraft is traveling at a certain speed through still air and encounters a headwind, its ground speed will be lower than its airspeed. Conversely, with a tailwind, the ground speed will be higher than the airspeed. Understanding ground speed helps pilots make informed decisions regarding flight time and fuel management as they navigate toward their destination.

The ground speed indicator shows the speed of the aircraft relative to the ground. This measurement is crucial for various operational aspects, such as navigation and fuel calculations. Ground speed takes into account not only the aircraft's propulsion but also the effects of wind. For example, if an aircraft is traveling at a certain speed through still air and encounters a headwind, its ground speed will be lower than its airspeed. Conversely, with a tailwind, the ground speed will be higher than the airspeed. Understanding ground speed helps pilots make informed decisions regarding flight time and fuel management as they navigate toward their destination.