How does a turn coordinator assist a pilot?

The turn coordinator is specifically designed to assist pilots by indicating the rate of turn and providing information on the coordination of the aircraft during those turns. It helps maintain a standard rate of turn, which is typically defined as three degrees per second, allowing the pilot to perform turns that are smooth and controlled.

Additionally, the turn coordinator shows whether the aircraft is in coordinated flight. It helps the pilot assess if the aircraft is skidding or slipping during a turn, which is crucial for maintaining control and avoiding unnecessary aerodynamic stress on the aircraft. This function of the turn coordinator is particularly important because it allows pilots to execute turns accurately and safely, contributing to overall flight safety and control.

In contrast, other options like indicating the distance to a waypoint, measuring altitude, or displaying engine performance do not pertain to the primary function of the turn coordinator. Each of these functions is typically served by different instruments in the cockpit.