After toppling a directional gyro in flight, what happens to the instrument?

When a directional gyro is toppled in flight, the instrument becomes physically misaligned relative to the aircraft's heading. However, it does not become completely unusable. The correct procedure is to reset the gyro to the accurate heading based on visual references or other onboard instruments, such as the magnetic compass.

After a toppling event, the gyro retains its basic functionality and can be realigned, allowing it to continue providing heading information once it has been reset. This ability to remain serviceable after corrective action is performed is crucial for pilots, as maintaining situational awareness in flight is paramount.

In contrast, the other potential outcomes described, such as becoming completely unusable, automatically recalibrating, or needing replacement, do not accurately reflect the behavior of a directional gyro following a toppling incident. The instrument's design allows it to be reset rather than removed from service.