In a NAV/COM radio failure, standby instruments provide what critical role?

• A. Primary attitude and altitude information from the main flight displays.
• B. Standby instruments provide attitude and altitude reference for continued safe flight.
• C. GPS navigation becomes primary.
• D. Autopilot engages for landing.

Answer: (B)

When NAV/COM fails, you need a reliable, independent set of flight references to keep the airplane under control. The standby instruments provide the essential attitude and altitude reference you need to fly safely. The standby attitude indicator shows your pitch and bank, so you can maintain a stable flight path, while the standby altimeter keeps you aware of your altitude for obstacle clearance and any altitude assignments as you continue to operate or prepare for an alternate landing. These instruments are designed to work when the primary displays and radios are inoperative, often with their own power source, so you’re not left without basic flight references. Standby instruments don’t make GPS primary, and they don’t automatically control the aircraft like an autopilot for landing; their role is to keep you flying safely by giving you reliable attitude and altitude information.