Which action specifically validates the attitude indicator's alignment during preflight?

Which action specifically validates the attitude indicator's alignment during preflight?

• A. Cross-check with magnetic heading or GPS
• B. Check for gyro alignment
• C. Ensure correct horizon depiction
• D. Verify lamp illumination

Answer: (B)

The attitude indicator is driven by a gyroscope, and its accuracy depends on the gyro’s axis being aligned with the aircraft’s roll and pitch axes. During preflight you specifically verify this gyro alignment so the artificial horizon shown on the face matches the actual aircraft attitude. If the gyro isn’t aligned, the horizon can appear tilted or offset even when the airplane is level, which can lead to dangerous deception in flight. Cross-checking with magnetic heading or GPS tests navigation instruments, not the attitude indicator itself, so it doesn’t confirm the AI’s alignment. The horizon depiction is what reveals the attitude, but it isn’t a direct alignment check by itself; issues can exist even if the horizon looks reasonable. Verifying lamp illumination simply confirms power to the instrument, not its accuracy.

The attitude indicator is driven by a gyroscope, and its accuracy depends on the gyro’s axis being aligned with the aircraft’s roll and pitch axes. During preflight you specifically verify this gyro alignment so the artificial horizon shown on the face matches the actual aircraft attitude. If the gyro isn’t aligned, the horizon can appear tilted or offset even when the airplane is level, which can lead to dangerous deception in flight.

Cross-checking with magnetic heading or GPS tests navigation instruments, not the attitude indicator itself, so it doesn’t confirm the AI’s alignment. The horizon depiction is what reveals the attitude, but it isn’t a direct alignment check by itself; issues can exist even if the horizon looks reasonable. Verifying lamp illumination simply confirms power to the instrument, not its accuracy.