Airspeed/Pitot Tube - Sensors
- Matt Skelton
About
The PHX uses a Pitot tube and differential airspeed sensor as the air data system for autonomous navigation. The Pitot tube and airspeed sensor (air data system) are flight critical. Calibrating the Airspeed sensor/Pitot tube ensures that the system can read airspeed correctly.
When To Calibrate
The airspeed sensor/Pitot tube should be calibrated before every flight per the pre-flight checklist item.
The airspeed sensor pitot/Pitot tube should also be calibrated anytime it is not reading within 0+/-5mph while sitting on the ground in a windless environment.
How To - Video
How To - Steps
Navigate to Gear Tab > Sensors
Select Airspeed
A menu will appear on the right hand side of the screen.
Press OK when you ware ready to begin.
Select Airspeed
Press the calibrate button
Block From Wind
Cover the Pitot tube from the wind or other airflow (such as a fan or drafty window) as shown.
Pressurize
When prompted, pressurize the Pitot tube.
Fly PHX will emit a voice prompt to pressurize the Pitot tube. The aircraft will also emit a beep.
To pressure the Pitot tube grab the sleeve between your pointer and middle finger. Then press your thumb into the tip of the tube to create pressure.
Hold the pressure until Fly PHX prompts that the calibration is complete. The aircraft will also emit a beep.
Complete
The calibration is now complete.
Verify (Optional)
To verify that the calibration was successful navigate to the fly screen.
Find the airspeed reading in the telemetry panel and verify it reads between -5 and 5 mph while now moving and the Pitot is blocked from any wind.
Then pressurize the Pitot tube and verify that it reads 20mph or greater for at least 3 seconds. The airspeed reading my gradually increase over the course of the pressurization.
If the airspeed reading increases then slowly decreases, or does not increase at all, check the Pitot for clogs or leaks.