What is the purpose of a pitot tube?

The purpose of a pitot tube is to measure airspeed by detecting changes in air pressure. This device works on the principle of differential pressure, capturing dynamic pressure (the pressure exerted by the moving air) and comparing it to static pressure (the pressure of the air when it is still). The difference between these two pressures allows for the calculation of the aircraft's airspeed.

In aviation, accurate airspeed readings are crucial for safe operation, as they help pilots understand how fast the aircraft is moving through the air, which is necessary for various phases of flight, including takeoff, cruise, and landing. The pitot tube is typically mounted on the exterior of the aircraft to accurately capture airflow, making it an essential instrument in an aircraft’s airspeed measurement system.