Pitot Static Malfunctions

T-45C TS & ADV BIFP-09

Instrument Failures

PITOT STATIC MALFUNCTIONS 1.8.1.7.3.2

If the entire pitot static system fails, you will lose all airspeed, all barometric altitude, and

all vertical velocity indicators in both cockpits. Verify the failure of any pitot static

instrument by cross-checking indications between standby and MFD readouts, and with

the other cockpit. A failure may result in frozen readouts, or zero readouts.

You can compensate for a total loss of the airspeed indications by flying the equivalent

angle of attack for climb, cruise, descent, and landing. See the Performance Data

section of NATOPS.

You have two ways to make up for the loss of barometric altitude information. First, you

can use the radar altimeter for height above ground up to 5,000 ft AGL. Second, you

can use the cabin pressure altimeter for altitude information. (Note: Regulations

prohibit flight above 25,000 ft MSL if the cockpit has been depressurized). The cabin

pressure altimeter does not compensate for local barometric pressure and should only

be considered accurate to +/- 500 ft.

To compensate for a total loss of vertical velocity information, use the clock to time the

amount of altitude change occurring over a specific period of time. For example, if you

descend 200 ft in 15 seconds, your rate of descent is 800 ft per minute.

The procedure for dealing with a total pitot static system failure is:

1. Check PITOT HEAT -- ON.

2. Compare instruments in both cockpits. Use AOA, radar altimeter, and/or cabin

pressure altimeter to calculate the approximate airspeed and altitude.

3. Report the failure to ATC.

4. Maneuver to exit icing conditions (if applicable).

5. Remain VMC, if possible.

6. Join with wingman if possible.

7. Consider declaring an in-flight emergency.

STANDBY AIRSPEED INDICATOR FAILURE 1.8.1.7.2.2

A standby airspeed indicator failure––by itself––is not a problem, providing airspeed

information on the display system is still available and correct. If, however, both

indication systems fail (or are in error), you may have to fly AOA in lieu of indicated

airspeed for basic aircraft control. An extensive list of equivalent AOAs for the T-45C

are listed in the Emergency Procedures section of NATOPS (main manual and pilot's

pocket checklist). Some examples follow:

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