What does a tachometer measure in an aircraft?

A tachometer measures the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the engine in an aircraft. This instrument is critical for pilots as it provides real-time feedback on the engine's performance, ensuring that it operates within safe performance parameters. Maintaining the correct RPM is essential for optimizing engine efficiency, fuel consumption, and overall aircraft performance.

While altitude, fuel levels, and speed are important measurements in aviation, they are monitored by different instruments. Altitude is typically indicated by an altimeter, fuel levels are checked using fuel gauges, and airspeed is measured with a speed indicator. Thus, the tachometer's role is specifically focused on engine RPM, making it a vital tool for managing the aircraft's power and performance effectively.