Preflight preparation_ Task C: Instrument Cockpit Check

1.  Communications Equipment

> Loss of communications under IFR may be considered an emergency requiring compliance with [91.185]

- Confirm the position and stability of radio antennas

- Use all radios prior to flight. Request "radio check" if necessary

- Transponder on standby

-> Reply light ON during warm-up

2. Navigation Equipment

1) VORs

- Confirm the position and stability of navigation antennas

- 91.171 requires a VOR accuracy check within 30 days prior to an IFR flight

-> Record date, place, bearing errors and sign - Every 30 days

 

2) DME

- Note distance from VOR/ DME if available

 

3) ILS

- If LOC is on the field, then tune, identify, and note the correct indication

3) GPS

- Confirm IFR approved, certified

- Follow appropriate start-up and self-test procedures

- Check RAIM availability

3. Magnetic Compass

- Fluid-filled

- Moves freely

- Correctly indicates known heading (taxiways, runways)

4. Heading Indicator (HI)/ Horizontal Situation Indicator (HSI)/ Remote Magnetic Indicator (RMI)

- Note correct indications on known headings during taxi

5. Attitude indicator (AI)

- Allow 5 minutes for gyro speed up

- Note horizon bar is aligned correctly

- Unreliable if more than 5' pitch or bank during taxi

6. Altimeter (ALT)

: Check maintenance logbook for static system and altimeter check within 24 months [91.411]

- Check static ports open, clear

- Set to the current reported altimeter setting

- Record ALT error = difference between ALT indication and known field elevation

- Conservative, safe practice: add any ALT error to approach MDA or DH during flight

- ALT error > 75 feet indicates ALT needs evaluation and repair

7. Turn-and-Slip Indicator/ Turn Coordinator (TC)

- During taxi turns, the ball moves freely to the outside of the turn

- During straight taxi, miniature airplane level

8. Vertical-Speed Indicator (VSI)

- Check maintenance logbook for static system (and altimeter) check within 24 months [91.411]

- Note/ set level indication

9. Airspeed indicator

- Check maintenance logbook for static system (and altimeter) check within 24 months [91.411]

- Confirm pitot heat available

- Note appropriately increasing rate during the initial takeoff roll

10. Outside Air Temperature

- Note correct indication

11. Clock

- Set the correct time

- Confirm operating