How should a pilot verify pitot-static failure using instruments?

• A. Rely solely on the primary flight instruments.
• B. Wait for an ECAM warning before action.
• C. Verify with standby instruments to confirm.
• D. Turn off all instruments.

Answer: (C)

When pitot-static data may be faulty, you want an independent check to confirm what the instruments are telling you. Standby instruments are fed by a different power source and, in many airplanes, have separate sensing paths from the pitot-static system. By comparing the standby airspeed, altitude, and vertical speed with the primary flight instruments, you can determine whether the abnormal readings are real or just instrument/sensor error.

If the standby readings corroborate the primary indications, you’re facing a true air-data issue, and you can follow the appropriate abnormal procedures (such as using the alternate static source) with confidence. If the standby readings disagree with the primary ones, the fault is likely with the affected primary instruments or their data path, not the aircraft’s actual state, guiding your subsequent actions. This cross-check is the safest and most reliable way to verify a pitot-static fault without waiting for warnings or turning off instruments.