Does my altimeter need to be removed to accomplish an IFR inspection?

In most cases the altimeter is removed to accomplish an IFR inspection for the following reasons:

1. The test set should be connected to the back of the altimeter to accomplish the testing mentioned on our breakdown page. Removing the altimeter simplifies the inspection process.

2. A label stating the date and test altitude is to be placed on the altimeter case after successful testing.

What are some tips to assure your equipment is being tested properly?

1. Assure testing of the altimeter is being accomplished with test equipment connected to the case of the altimeter. This will reduce the chances of damaging your other equipment.

2. Ask questions during testing. This is a great way to learn about the testing, most technicians will not know all the answers but should be able to provide the references where the answers can be found.

3. Book your appointment as far in advance as possible. This will assure the technician has plenty of time to gather all the required information before the appointment date.

What are some Pre-Inspection best practices?

1. Schedule your inspection to be accomplished at the same time as your annual inspection. This will minimize downtime.

2. Perform Altimeter Errors test per AIM 7-2-3 before booking inspection. This will give you an idea of your altimeter and encoders accuracy.

3. Make sure your log books are in hand. This will assure we get your log entry in the book the day of the inspection.

4. Make sure your equipment is in working condition. For example all buttons and knobs on transponder and altimeter are in working condition.

5. Review your equipments Instructions for Continued Airworthyness (ICA). If you have upgraded equipment it may require additional testing.

6. Make sure your aircraft battery is fully charged. We have found that weak batteries can cause the transponder power frequency and sensitivity tests to fail.

7. Perform a visual inspection of your transponder antenna. Most antennas are covered in oil which can hide damage.

What is the difference between an IFR and VFR inspection?

1. VFR inspection consists of the following:

   1. Testing of transponder per Appendix F of part 43.

      NOTE: Testing of the altitude reporting system is not required unless the transponder was removed or any maintenance was performed in the system that could cause altitude reporting errors. (Transponder is usally removed to verify serial number).

2. IFR inspection consists of the following:

   • Testing of altimeter per Appendix E of part 43.

   • Testing of static system per Appendix E of part 43.

   • Testing of altitude reporting system per Appendix E of part 43.

   • Testing of transponder per Appendix F of part 43.

Should I upgrade from a VFR to IFR inspection even though I fly under VFR?

We always recommend testing your equipment to IFR standards when possible for multiple reasons including:

1. We could never predict the exact weather. It would not be ideal to be caught in IFR weather with an aircraft that has not been tested to IFR standards. The static system could be leaking causing inaccurate altitude readings or your altimeter could be providing inaccurate readings.

2. There have been multiple instances where a VFR inspection is accomplished and a short time later ATC informs the pilot that the aircraft’s altitude is off by more than 200 feet. This issue could have been discovered and fixed during an IFR inspection, now the owner is stuck doing two inspections in a short period of time costing more down time and money.