The instrument used because it lies

This article explores the Pitot tube, an instrument used in aviation to measure flight speed since 1732. Despite technological advancements, modern airliners like the Boeing 787 and Airbus A320 still rely on this method, even though it is susceptible to icing and inherent inaccuracies. The author explains why the instrument's readings intentionally differ from true airspeed and how pilots account for these discrepancies during flight. The piece also examines historical incidents involving sensor failures, the impact of external factors like insects on measurement accuracy, and the evolution of aviation safety standards. The article highlights a paradox: a critical aviation tool remains imperfect, yet its operation remains a fundamental pillar of flight safety, requiring a deep understanding of the underlying physics by the flight crew.