FAA Instrument Flight Instructor (FII)Instruments and SystemsHard
Per 14 CFR 91.411, an aircraft's static pressure system, altimeter, and automatic altitude reporting system must be tested and inspected within what period before use in controlled airspace under IFR?
- AWithin the preceding 12 calendar months
- BWithin the preceding 100 hours of flight time
- CWithin the preceding 24 calendar months
- DWithin the preceding 30 calendar days
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Within the preceding 24 calendar months
14 CFR 91.411 requires that the static pressure system, altimeter, and automatic pressure altitude reporting system be tested and inspected within the preceding 24 calendar months for IFR flight in controlled airspace. This parallels the 24-calendar-month requirement in 91.413 for transponder tests.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 12 months is the requirement for ELTs (91.207), not the pitot-static system.
- B. 100-hour intervals apply to certain inspections for aircraft used for hire, not pitot-static checks.
- D. 30 days is not a recognized interval for any pitot-static or transponder inspection.
Pitot-Static/Altimeter Inspection (91.411)
Regulation requiring the static system, altimeter, and altitude reporting equipment be tested within the preceding 24 calendar months for IFR flight in controlled airspace.
- 24-calendar-month interval, same as transponder check (91.413)
- Applies only to IFR flight in controlled airspace
- Test must be performed by an appropriately certificated repair station or manufacturer
Memory trick: Static system and transponder both nap for 24 months.