Definition
Adjustments applied to indicated airspeed to account for errors introduced by the pitot-static system, instrument design, and air density. The main corrections are for instrument error, position (installation) error, and compressibility, producing calibrated airspeed (CAS), equivalent airspeed (EAS), and ultimately true airspeed (TAS) when density is also accounted for.
Plain English
The airspeed shown on the dial is rarely the exact speed the airplane is moving through the air. Airspeed corrections are the small fixes pilots apply to that reading to get a more accurate number — accounting for instrument quirks, where the sensors are mounted, and how thin the air is at altitude.
Context Anchor
Seen in pitot-static system discussions, especially when a blocked static port forces the pilot to use an alternate static source or another emergency method to restore static pressure.
Why Pilots Care
Using the correct airspeed is essential for safe climb, descent, and landing speeds; uncorrected readings can lead to loss of control or runway overruns.
Grounding Statement
If the airspeed display is known to be off by a certain amount, the correction tells the pilot what adjustment to make before trusting that number.
Intuition Check
Do not read “corrections” as general advice to fly better. Here it means specific published adjustments to an indicated airspeed value.
Example Sentence 1
After noting the indicated airspeed, the pilot applied the airspeed corrections from the POH to find the true airspeed for cruise planning.
Example Sentence 2
During the approach with a simulated static blockage, the instructor had the student demonstrate airspeed corrections to maintain the proper landing speed.