What should a pilot check if they observe the A/I DUCT fail indication?

When a pilot observes the A/I DUCT fail indication, it is crucial to check for exterior leaks because this signal often points to a potential failure in the aircraft's air conditioning or anti-ice systems. An exterior leak could lead to a failure of air systems that are essential for maintaining cabin pressure, temperature, and safety in flight conditions, particularly at high altitudes or in adverse weather environments.

Identifying and addressing exterior leaks is critical to ensure that the aircraft can maintain its operational capabilities. If the A/I DUCT fails, it may not just impact cabin comfort; it can also affect the overall safety of the flight, especially in icy conditions where adequate airflow to critical systems is necessary.

The other options, while part of a comprehensive troubleshooting approach, do not address the immediate and most pertinent issue of a duct failure. For instance, reviewing flight data for anomalies may provide some insights but doesn’t directly lead to confirming or resolving the suspected duct failure. Inspecting the cabin for smoke is also important in general checklists but may not be specifically relevant to A/I DUCT failures unless there is a specific warning about smoke that may or may not be present. Communicating with ground control is certainly necessary in case of emergencies, but it should follow the initial