What are the two major parts of the pitot-static system?

The pitot-static system is crucial in providing essential information about an aircraft's altitude and speed. This system comprises two primary components: the pitot tube and static air vents.

The pitot tube is responsible for measuring dynamic air pressure, which is essential to determine the aircraft's airspeed. It captures airflow as the aircraft moves forward and sends this data to the airspeed indicator.

Static air vents, which are typically located on the side of the aircraft fuselage, measure static pressure. This pressure is used by both the altimeter and the vertical speed indicator (VSI) to provide altitude information and the rate of climb or descent, respectively.

Thus, the correct identification of the two major components of the pitot-static system as the pitot tube and static air vents underlines their roles in accurately measuring speed and altitude, which are vital for effective navigation and safety in aviation.