In the minds of many pilots, the vacuum system is the weak link in the chain of robust parts that hold an airplane in the air and under control. In most airplanes, the vacuum system powers the attitude indicator and the directional gyro. In others, only the attitude indicator. In some it also pumps up de-ice boots and/or pressurizes the cabin.

In all, those are important responsibilities for a fist-sized chunk of carbon fitted with carbon blades that ride in constant contact with the housing surrounding them. …