flight instrumentsFAA-published question bank (Private Pilot, 2008)
During flight, when are the indications of a magnetic compass accurate?
A
Only in straight-and-level unaccelerated flight.✓ Correct Answer
B
As long as the airspeed is constant.
C
During turns if the bank does not exceed 18°.
Explanation
PHAK Chapter 8 explains that the magnetic compass is subject to turning, acceleration and oscillation errors, so it gives reliable readings only in straight-and-level, unaccelerated flight. Constant airspeed alone is not enough if the airplane is turning, and there is no bank angle below which turning errors disappear.
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