Aircraft systems and instrumentsQuestion 561 of 934

On which gyroscopic principle does the attitude indicator depend?

  1. Precession of the gyro rotor
  2. Magnetic dip of the compass card
  3. Rigidity in space
  4. Pitot pressure on a diaphragm
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Correct answer: Rigidity in space

The gyro spins in a horizontal plane. The aircraft rotates around it.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 8: Flight Instruments — Gyroscopic Flight Instruments — Attitude Indicator, page 220

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026