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Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 545 of 934

The pitot tube and its drain hole are both blocked. The static port is open. The airplane climbs. What does the ASI show?

  1. A decrease in airspeed
  2. Zero, because no air enters the pitot tube
  3. An increase in airspeed
  4. No change
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Correct answer: An increase in airspeed

In the climb, the static pressure decreases, so the diaphragm expands. The ASI acts like an altimeter.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 8: Flight Instruments — Blockage of the Pitot-Static System — Blocked Pitot System, page 213

Practice aircraft systems and instruments

Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026