Precipitation static can cause inconsistent instrument readouts.

• A. Inconsistent instrument readouts
• B. Stable instrument readings
• C. Enhanced altimeter accuracy
• D. No effect on readings

Answer: (A)

Precipitation static charges the aircraft as it moves through moisture, and when that charge discharges it disturbs the static pressure sensed by the pitot-static system. Since airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed indicators rely on accurate static pressure, any discharge or noise from this static build-up causes the readings to flicker or vary. That’s why you see inconsistent instrument readouts rather than stable values or improved accuracy. The effect is real and noticeable during precipitation; the readings won’t stay steady, and they won’t suddenly become more accurate or be unaffected.