You Need an Electronic Flight Bag

The AC defines an EFB as an electronic display system intended mainly for cabin or cockpit use. To that end, an EFB can display aviation data such as charts and make basic calculations such as time, fuel and distance calculations. An EFB can also include other databases, perhaps FARs, or additional applications such as crosswind, weight-and-balance and holding calculators.

Fred Simonds

Wednesday, August 10, 2016 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

Key Takeaways:

FAA Advisory Circular 91-78 allows Part 91 pilots to use Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) to replace paper charts and flight documentation, provided the EFB and its data are current, valid, and functionally equivalent.
EFBs are categorized into Class 1 (portable) and Class 2 (mounted), with distinct rules for power sourcing, aircraft connectivity, and installation approval.
Pilots must ensure EFBs do not interfere with aircraft systems, are not used as substitutes for required instruments, and demand proficiency, preflight checks, and local data storage.
While EFBs can store extensive flight information, essential legal documents like pilot licenses, medical certificates, and aircraft airworthiness certificates must still be carried in physical form.

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You use a tablet in the airplane, right? You’ve probably got one of the popular apps like ForeFlight, Garmin Pilot, or WingX. You probably use it for charts and nav, but if you don’t use your tablet as a full electronic flight bag (EFB), you might be missing the boat.

Check the Advisory Circular

Back in 2007, the FAA issued AC 91-78, Use of Class 1 or Class 2 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB). Not only did the AC define an EFB, it also created regulatory distinctions and discrete rules governing Class 1 portable and Class 2 mounted EFBs. The AC gives Part 91 pilots guidance on how to safely transition from paper aeronautical charts and other cockpit documentation and replace it with an Electronic Flight Bag.