Do Missing Instruments Ground an Airplane?

Know what you need to be legal.

Wednesday, February 14, 2024 at 05:27 PM ET

Verified

In order to be legal for daytime VFR flight, there are several things an aircraft needs. [Photo: Creation Media/Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The legality of an aircraft with inoperative instruments for flight training is determined by specific FAA regulations, primarily FAR 91.205 and FAR 91.207.
FAR 91.205 outlines the essential instruments required for daytime VFR flight, such as the airspeed indicator, altimeter, magnetic compass, and fuel gauge.
FAR 91.207 details the requirements for an Emergency Locator Transmitter (ELT), with exceptions for local training operations conducted entirely within a 50 nm radius.
Pilots often use the mnemonic "A TOMATO FLAMES" to remember the comprehensive list of instruments and equipment mandated by these regulations.

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Question: I just started my flight training and the airplane has inoperative instruments in the panel. These are round dials, and they have “INOP” stickers over them. The CFI didn’t seem concerned, but I wonder, is this airplane even legal now?

Answer: The answer to your question lies under both FAR 91.205 and FAR 91.207. FAR 91.205 lists the instruments required for daytime VFR flight, where most flight training starts.