What does the heading indicator display?

The heading indicator displays the aircraft's current heading in degrees, which is a vital aspect of navigation and awareness in instrument flying. It shows the direction the aircraft is pointed, measured in degrees from magnetic north. This information helps pilots maintain accurate tracking of their course and ensures they can effectively navigate to their intended waypoints.

While altitude is critical for safe flight, it is not represented on the heading indicator. Similarly, the speed in knots is measured by the airspeed indicator, and the rate of climb or descent is shown on the altimeter or vertical speed indicator, not the heading indicator. Thus, option C is the only choice that correctly reflects the function of the heading indicator in the cockpit instrumentation.