Which element on the PFD is used to verify altitude settings during departure procedures?

• A. The airspeed tape
• B. The attitude indicator
• C. The altitude bug on the PFD
• D. The vertical speed indicator

Answer: (C)

The key idea is how you confirm the altitude you’ve programmed for departure is what the aircraft will actually fly to. On the PFD, the altitude bug is the marker on the altitude tape that shows the selected target altitude from the FCU/MCP. By glancing at this marker, you can instantly verify that the intended departure altitude is set and that you’re aiming to reach it, which is essential during SID/early climb procedures.

The other displays don’t serve this purpose: the airspeed tape shows speed, not altitude; the attitude indicator displays the aircraft’s pitch and roll; and the vertical speed indicator shows climb or descent rate. None of these confirm the programmed altitude, so the altitude bug is the correct tool for verifying altitude settings during departure.