Finally! An EFB that actually makes flying easier and fun again.
Finally! An EFB that actually makes flying easier and fun again.
The definition of an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB), according to the FAA's Advisory Circular (AC No. 120-76A), is an electronic display system intended primarily for cockpit / flightdeck or cabin use. EFB devices can display a variety of aviation data or perform basic calculations (e.g., performance data, fuel calculations,etc.). In the past, some of these functions were traditionally accomplished using paper references or were based on data provided to the flight crew by an airline's "flight dispatch" function. In short, an EFB is an electronic information management device that helps flight crews perform flight management tasks more easily and efficiently, in a less-paper environment.
As they are designed to replace the heavy and cumbersome traditional pilot flight bag, EFB systems are relatively small and light (only a few pounds at most). They typically consist of a screen and a control unit that may be installed, mounted or contained in one sole portable unit. EFBs can electronically store and retrieve documents required for flight operations, such as the General Operations Manual (GOM), Minimum Equipment Lists (MEL), Flight Crew Operating Manual (FCOM), and other controlled documents/data. One of the major motivators for using an EFB is to reduce or eliminate the need for paper and other reference materials in the cockpit.
FAA AC-120-76A: "Guidelines For The Certification, Airworthiness, And Operational Approval Of Electronic Flight Bag Computing Devices".
JAA / EASA TGL36: Approval of Electronic Flight Bags
Chartflier is designed to meet the EFB/ECD requirements for part 91 operations only under:
As a Class 1 EFB/ECD solution with Type “A” software.
The pilot/operator of the aircraft is ultimately responsible to (a) verify that all information being used for navigation or planning is current, up-to-date and valid as verified by the pilot (b) complies with the requirements of 14 CFR part 9, (91.21) to ensure that the use of the EFB does not interfere with the equipment or systems required for flight (c) the in-flight use of an EFB/ECD in lieu of paper reference material is the decision of the aircraft operator and the pilot in command.
Whether a handheld GPS designed for use in an airplane, or a Tablet PC running electronic flight bag software such as Chartflier, the FAA might ask whether or not the portable electronic device (PED) causes interference with the navigation and communication equipment in your aircraft. How do you make that determination?
FAA Advisory Circular 91.21.1B provides guidance on how to test PEDs to determine if they will cause interference with the navigation or communication systems of the aircraft. It states that the pilot in command or operator can conduct an operational test without the use of sophisticated equipment. Read more...