What is the name of the fundamental skill in instrument flight described as the continuous and logical observation of instruments for attitude and performance information?

• A. Cross-check
• B. Scan
• C. Situational awareness
• D. Attitude instrument review

Answer: (A)

Cross-check is the fundamental skill in instrument flight: the continuous and logical observation of instruments for attitude and performance information. You methodically monitor the attitude indicator to know pitch and bank, the airspeed indicator for speed, and the altimeter (and vertical speed indicator as needed) for altitude and rate of climb or descent. By consistently comparing these indications, you maintain an accurate picture of the aircraft’s state and can promptly detect any instrument errors or discrepancies. This ongoing process is carried out through the instrument scan—the practiced pattern of moving your eyes from one instrument to another in a fixed sequence so nothing is missed. Situational awareness refers to understanding your overall position in the environment, which is broader than the instrument-focused monitoring described here, and an attitude instrument review isn’t the standard term for this continuous monitoring.