What is the rule of thumb for correcting a small altitude deviation using the VSI relative to the attitude indicator?

• A. VSI indication should be equal to the attitude indication.
• B. VSI indication should be half that of the attitude indication.
• C. VSI indication should be twice that of the attitude indication.
• D. VSI indication should be triple that of the attitude indication.

Answer: (C)

When you’re correcting a small altitude deviation, think in terms of proportional control: the attitude indicator tells you how far you’re tilting the nose, and the VSI shows how fast you’re climbing or descending as a result. The practical rule of thumb is to command a vertical speed about twice the amount shown on the attitude indicator. This gives a steady, controlled correction—fast enough to close the altitude gap without overshooting. Since the VSI is a rate in feet per minute and the attitude indicator is a pitch angle in degrees, using a two-to-one relationship keeps the correction balanced and responsive. If you tried to match values one-for-one or go much higher, the correction would be too slow or too aggressive for a small error. Keep monitoring and adjust as needed based on feel and altitude change.