Precipitation static can cause inconsistent instrument readouts.

Precipitation static can cause inconsistent instrument readouts.

• A. Inconsistent instrument readouts
• B. Stable instrument readings
• C. Enhanced altimeter accuracy
• D. No effect on readings

Answer: (A)

Precipitation static charges the aircraft as it moves through moisture, and when that charge discharges it disturbs the static pressure sensed by the pitot-static system. Since airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed indicators rely on accurate static pressure, any discharge or noise from this static build-up causes the readings to flicker or vary. That’s why you see inconsistent instrument readouts rather than stable values or improved accuracy. The effect is real and noticeable during precipitation; the readings won’t stay steady, and they won’t suddenly become more accurate or be unaffected.

Precipitation static charges the aircraft as it moves through moisture, and when that charge discharges it disturbs the static pressure sensed by the pitot-static system. Since airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed indicators rely on accurate static pressure, any discharge or noise from this static build-up causes the readings to flicker or vary. That’s why you see inconsistent instrument readouts rather than stable values or improved accuracy. The effect is real and noticeable during precipitation; the readings won’t stay steady, and they won’t suddenly become more accurate or be unaffected.