What does the inertial separator provide during flight?

The inertial separator plays a critical role in protecting the engine from potential hazards, particularly in conditions of icing or foreign object debris (FOD). During flight, the inertial separator utilizes aerodynamic principles to divert and separate unwanted particulates and precipitation from the incoming airflow before it reaches the engine. This helps to ensure that the engine operates within its designed parameters without exposure to contaminants that could cause damage, such as ice or debris.

In scenarios where these elements are present, such as flying through clouds with ice or near the ground where FOD may be encountered, the inertial separator becomes crucial for maintaining safe and reliable engine operation. Therefore, its primary function during flight is to provide induction protection, thereby enhancing operational safety in various environmental conditions.

The other options, while they may pertain to aircraft performance or operating conditions, do not accurately describe the primary function of the inertial separator during flight.