Inclinometers

An inclinometer is a device used to measure the tilt or angle of a surface relative to the horizontal. An inclinometer helps the pilot maintain a coordinated turn by indicating if the aircraft is slipping or skidding, based on force from gravity and the centrifugal force of the turn.

An inclinometer indicates whether an aircraft is slipping or skidding when the turn rate and bank angle are not coordinated. The ball inside the curved glass tube will indicate slip or skid based on its location during a turn. With straight and level flight, the ball will remain in the center of the tube. During a turn, the ball will move within the tube. If the ball moves toward the wings-down side of the aircraft, it’s slipping. If the ball moves toward the wings-up side of the aircraft, it’s skidding. The goal of every turn is to maintain the ball in the center of the tube to avoid a slip or skid, ensuring safe turns.