How Do Variometer Work?

In a simple variometer, tubing runs from a reference chamber to an outside static source. The static air pressure decreases in a climb and the air inside the chamber expands; the variometer measures the rate of airflow coming out of the chamber, either mechanically or using a heat-sensitive electrical resistor.

How does a variometer work?

In a simple variometer, tubing runs from a reference chamber to an outside static source. The static air pressure decreases in a climb and the air inside the chamber expands; the variometer measures the rate of airflow coming out of the chamber, either mechanically or using a heat-sensitive electrical resistor.

What does a Vario do?

In aviation, a variometer – also known as a rate of climb and descent indicator (RCDI), rate-of-climb indicator, vertical speed indicator (VSI), or vertical velocity indicator (VVI) – is one of the flight instruments in an aircraft used to inform the pilot of the rate of descent or climb.

Chloe Bennett

Chloe Bennett

Culture, Media & Entertainment Columnist

Chloe Bennett explores the intersection of pop culture, streaming entertainment, digital trends, and contemporary lifestyle. Her weekly commentary reaches thousands of culture enthusiasts.