What does the turn coordinator indicate?

The turn coordinator is an important instrument in the cockpit that primarily indicates the rate of turn and assists in ensuring the coordination of the turn. It provides crucial information about how quickly the aircraft is turning, which is displayed in degrees per second. This instrument is particularly valuable for pilots in maintaining a standard rate turn, which is generally 3 degrees per second, allowing for smooth and controlled maneuvers.

Additionally, the turn coordinator helps pilots identify whether the turn is coordinated—meaning that the aircraft is not skidding or skidding during the turn. Achieving a coordinated turn is essential for effective flight control and safety, as uncoordinated turns can lead to unwanted situations such as a stall or excessive bank angles.

Thus, recognizing the function of the turn coordinator not only enhances piloting skills but also contributes to safer flight practices, especially during complex flight scenarios.