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If the static port becomes completely blocked by ice while you are climbing, how will this affect the reading on your altimeter?

  • A

    It will show fluctuations and the indicator needle will become unsteady.

  • B

    It will show a continuing climb, even when you level out.

  • C

    It will give the appearance of level flight at that altitude.

  • D

    It will show a continual and gradual descent.

Refer to figure.
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If the static vent ices over during a climb, it effectively seals the altimeter's reference to outside static pressure. Once the vent is blocked, the altimeter becomes trapped at the last pressure it sensed, meaning it will no longer register any further changes in altitude.

So, even if the aircraft continues to climb or levels off, the altimeter will remain "frozen" at the last indicated altitude when the icing occurred. To the pilot, it will appear as if the aircraft is flying level, even though it may be climbing or descending in reality.

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