During high workload, the recommended verification method for ADS data is to

• A. Rely solely on autopilot data
• B. Switch to weather radar as data source
• C. Cross-check with standby instruments and, if necessary, select the alternate air data source
• D. Request a divert immediately

Answer: (C)

When workload is high, you don’t want to rely on a single air data source. The best practice is to cross-check the primary air data against the standby instruments, which are fed by a separate pitot-static path and provide an independent reference for airspeed and altitude. If discrepancies or uncertainty remain, you switch to the alternate air data source to restore a reliable readout from a different set of sensors. This approach helps detect a faulty pitot-static/ADS channel and keeps you with accurate, safe flight data.

Relying only on autopilot data isn’t ideal because the autopilot uses the same air data inputs and won’t reveal inconsistencies on its own. Weather radar doesn’t supply air data at all. Diverting immediately isn’t necessary unless the data fault prevents maintaining safe flight; verification and switching to a backup source is the proper first step.