If crew chief assistance is required to close and lock the canopy, what should be done?

The correct action in this scenario involves first opening and attempting to reclose and lock the canopy from inside. This approach is based on the understanding that many issues related to canopy closure can often be resolved by the crew chief or the pilot taking direct action within the cockpit. By reopening the canopy, it allows for a better examination of the locking mechanism and ensures that any obstructions or misalignments can be addressed prior to attempting to close it again. This action is crucial because repeated issues in closing the canopy can be indicative of a mechanical fault or obstruction, and addressing it from the inside offers a hands-on way to troubleshoot the problem.

The other options suggest inappropriate responses that would neither assist in resolving the situation nor ensure the safety of the flight. Simply notifying the pilot of the issue may delay the resolution process when immediate action is necessary. Closing the canopy from the outside only does not allow for proper engagement of the locking mechanisms and could result in a failed seal or safety concern. Leaving the canopy as is creates an unsafe scenario where the aircraft is not properly secured for flight, increasing risks during operations. Therefore, addressing the problem from inside by reopening and retrying closure is the most effective and safest course of action.