What does the heading indicator display?

• A. The aircraft's altitude in feet
• B. The aircraft's speed in knots
• C. The current heading of the aircraft in degrees
• D. The rate of climb or descent

Answer: (C)

The heading indicator is specifically designed to provide pilots with the current heading of the aircraft, measured in degrees. This instrument displays the aircraft's orientation relative to magnetic north and is crucial for navigation. The heading is typically shown on a circular dial, with markings indicating different degrees from 0° to 360°.

This information helps pilots maintain orientation, especially during turns, in relation to their desired flight path. An accurate heading is critical for maintaining course, especially in environments where visual references are limited, such as in poor weather or low visibility conditions.

In contrast, altitude, airspeed, and rate of climb or descent are represented by other instruments in the cockpit such as the altimeter, airspeed indicator, and vertical speed indicator, respectively. Thus, the heading indicator's focused function is to show the aircraft's heading, making it essential for effective navigation and maintaining situational awareness.