← All explained questions · Supplemental · VIII — Basic Instrument Maneuvers

If the attitude indicator (AI) gyro suddenly shows wild attitude swings unrelated to actual aircraft motion ("tumbling"), the most likely cause is

Choices

normal operation.
Wild swings are not normal.
✓ the gyro has tumbled (exceeded its ~60° pitch / ~100° bank operational limit).correct
or vacuum/pump failure has caused it to spin down. Use partial-panel scan (compass, turn coordinator) until ground service. Attitude indicators have operational limits — exceed them and the gyro 'tumbles' (visual is wild swings). Modern AI's are tumble-proof but older mechanical gyros aren't. Vacuum failure also causes spin-down. Either way: ignore the AI, use partial-panel (turn coordinator, magnetic compass, altimeter, airspeed). Land at nearest suitable airport.
GPS signal loss.
GPS isn't connected to AI in most GA aircraft.
you're flying upside down.
Upside down would show consistent inverted attitude, not wild swings.

Why

or vacuum/pump failure has caused it to spin down. Use partial-panel scan (compass, turn coordinator) until ground service. Attitude indicators have operational limits — exceed them and the gyro 'tumbles' (visual is wild swings). Modern AI's are tumble-proof but older mechanical gyros aren't. Vacuum failure also causes spin-down. Either way: ignore the AI, use partial-panel (turn coordinator, magnetic compass, altimeter, airspeed). Land at nearest suitable airport.

FAA source: PHAK Ch 8; PHAK Chapter 8 — Flight Instrumentsbrowse the reference library →

Covered in Supplemental · VIII — Basic Instrument Maneuvers — study the lessons free, then practice with grading and mastery tracking.

Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question.