Pilot Exam Coach

US Private Pilot

Switch to Canada PSTAR
Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 526 of 934

What is the lag of a VSI?

  1. The delay between a throttle change and a power change
  2. The error that blockage of the pitot tube causes
  3. The delay before the VSI shows an accurate new rate
  4. The time that the gyro needs to spin up after start
Show answer

Correct answer: The delay before the VSI shows an accurate new rate

Rough control technique and turbulence can extend the lag.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 8: Flight Instruments — Vertical Speed Indicator (VSI) — Instrument Check, page 210

Practice aircraft systems and instruments

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026