Electrical Systems

Unless youre flying a hot-air balloon, a sailplane or something with an engine that must be hand-propped, your aircraft has an electrical system. It may power only the basic equipment, like lights and the engines starter motor, or it can power everything, including the landing gear, flaps and flight instruments. Modern systems-and even those aboard so-called legacy aircraft-usually are relatively simple and robust, with well-understood components and maintenance requirements.

Thursday, July 20, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

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Key Takeaways:

Aircraft electrical systems, typically 12- or 24-volt DC and separate from magneto-driven ignition, are vital for powering everything from starters to flight instruments, relying on components like batteries, alternators, and regulators.
Maintaining system reliability requires diligent inspection for issues like corrosion or damaged wiring, using FAA-approved repair parts, and properly servicing components such as lead-acid batteries.
Pilots must actively monitor electrical indicators (e.g., ammeter) and thoroughly understand their aircraft's electrical system and associated emergency procedures to prevent critical inflight failures.

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Unless you’re flying a hot-air balloon, a sailplane or something with an engine that must be hand-propped, your aircraft has an electrical system. It may power only the basic equipment, like lights and the engine’s starter motor, or it can power everything, including the landing gear, flaps and flight instruments. Modern systems—and even those aboard so-called legacy aircraft—usually are relatively simple and robust, with well-understood components and maintenance requirements.