What is the function of the vertical speed indicator?

The vertical speed indicator primarily serves to indicate the rate of climb or descent of the aircraft. This instrument provides pilots with critical information regarding how quickly the aircraft is ascending or descending, usually measured in feet per minute. By monitoring this information, pilots can make informed decisions about maintaining safe altitude changes and managing the aircraft’s performance during different phases of flight, such as takeoff, landing, or cruising.

Understanding the vertical speed is essential for adhering to air traffic control regulations and ensuring a safe flight, particularly in congested airspace or during approaches to landing where precise altitude control is necessary. The information provided by the vertical speed indicator allows pilots to adjust their ascent or descent rate to comply with required procedures or to compensate for environmental factors like turbulence.