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Aviation glossary

Oil Pressure

What is oil pressure?

FAA handbook figure illustrating oil pressure

Oil pressure is the force at which lubricating oil is circulated through the engine, and it is a vital indicator of engine health that the pilot must monitor in flight. It may be shown on a circular or linear gauge, as a numerical value, or grouped with other engine parameters on a digital display. Think of it as your engine's "pulse"—low or fluctuating oil pressure is an early warning of a serious problem.

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