What type of airspeed is shown on the aircraft's airspeed indicator?

Prepare for the Air Traffic Control (ATC) Basics Block 3 Test. Study with in-depth flashcards, hints, and explanations for each question. Ace your ATC exam!

Indicated airspeed is the airspeed that is displayed directly on the aircraft's airspeed indicator. It is measured in knots and reflects the dynamic pressure of the air over the aircraft's wings. This measurement is crucial for pilots, as it is used for performance calculations like stall speed, takeoff, and landing speeds. The indicated airspeed does not account for altitude or temperature variations, which can affect the actual speed of the aircraft through the air, but it serves as a valuable reference for flying.

In contrast, ground speed refers to how fast the aircraft is moving over the ground and takes into account wind conditions. True airspeed adjusts the indicated airspeed for air density variations due to altitude and temperature, making it a key factor in navigation across longer distances. Calibrated airspeed is an indication of airspeed corrected for instrument errors and installation errors; although it is more accurate than indicated airspeed, it is still not the direct reading provided on the airspeed indicator. Thus, the proper identification for the reading on the aircraft's airspeed indicator is indeed indicated airspeed.

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