Turn Coordinator
What is turn coordinator?
The turn coordinator is a gyroscopic flight instrument that shows the rate of turn and the quality (coordination) of that turn. Unlike the older turn-and-slip indicator, which senses rotation only about the vertical (yaw) axis, the turn coordinator's gyro is canted so it also senses roll about the longitudinal axis—giving you an earlier indication as the aircraft begins to bank into a turn. The miniature airplane shows turn rate and direction, while the inclinometer ball below shows whether the turn is coordinated, slipping, or skidding. Think of it as: "step on the ball" to stay coordinated.
Also known as: TC, turn-and-slip indicator (related/predecessor), turn and bank indicator
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