What is the purpose of the standby attitude indicator on the A320?

• A. To monitor engine parameters.
• B. To display cabin pressure.
• C. To provide attitude information if primary flight displays or FBW data are unavailable.
• D. To assist in navigation.

Answer: (C)

The idea being tested is how attitude information remains available when the main flight displays or flight control data aren’t usable. The standby attitude indicator is a backup instrument that provides a true attitude reference independent of the primary flight displays and FBW data. It uses its own power source and gyro to show pitch and bank, so even if the PFD/ND or FBW information is unavailable or degraded, you still have reliable horizon information to fly by. That makes it essential for maintaining proper orientation during electrical failures or display faults, especially in IMC or high workload scenarios. It isn’t used to monitor engines, cabin pressure, or navigation, which is why the other options don’t fit.