Thanks to dynamic pressure, the pilots of an airplane know the relative wind: it is the wind experienced by the moving aircraft. You can compare it to the feeling you would have when you put your hand out of the open window of a moving car. Relative wind is essential for pilots to keep the aircraft above its stall speed; otherwise, the aircraft risks loss of altitude and loss of control.
Now let’s assume that the Pitot probe is blocked by debris (ice, frost or insects). In this case, it becomes impossible to correctly measure the speed of the plane as it gains altitude. To prevent this situation, the tubes should be inspected before each flight.
Author – Mfongan Pascal
Electronic Engineer for Aviation Safety Systems