For instrument flight, what basic actions should a pilot take if the attitude indicator fails?

• A. Cross-check other attitude indicators, use standby instruments, maintain control with lead/lag checks, and inform ATC if IFR.
• B. Immediately descend to the nearest airport.
• C. Ignore the failure and continue as planned.
• D. Switch to VFR and ignore IFR procedures.

Answer: (A)

When the attitude information goes away, the first priority is to keep the airplane under control by relying on other sources of attitude data and building a clear picture of the aircraft’s pitch and bank. Use the standby attitude indicator if it’s available and independently powered, and cross-check it with the turn coordinator and heading indicator to establish a reliable sense of attitude. Because different instruments respond at different speeds, apply gentle, coordinated inputs and use lead/lag awareness to avoid overcorrecting based on a single readout. If you’re IFR, inform ATC about the malfunction so they’re aware you’re operating with degraded avionics and can assist if needed. Stay on the instrument flight plan and follow established procedures, switching to backup references until you regain reliable attitude information or can land safely. Switching to VFR or descending immediately aren’t appropriate responses to an attitude indicator failure in IMC, as they can lead to loss of situational awareness or improper clearance handling.