During an intercom failure, what should the FCP use to see the RCP?

• A. Mirror
• B. Binoculars
• C. Flashlight
• D. Hand signals

Answer: (A)

If communication between the crew stations is lost, you must rely on what you can observe visually to stay coordinated. A mirror in the front cockpit gives you a real-time view of the rear cockpit, so you can see the RCP’s control inputs and any instrument indications without turning around or depending on speech. This direct visual feedback helps you confirm that the other pilot is carrying out the expected actions and respond appropriately, which is much quicker and more reliable in a high-workload situation than trying to interpret signals or rely on memory.

Binoculars would be unwieldy for close, quick cockpit observations and can distort judgment at short range. A flashlight doesn’t help you see what the other pilot is doing. Hand signals rely on both pilots being able to see and understand them, which isn’t guaranteed when intercoms are down. The mirror provides a practical, immediate viewing aid to maintain coordination until normal communication is restored.