Aircraft Avionics System Inspection and Testing Checklist

This aircraft avionics system inspection and testing checklist ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 43 (Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding, and Alteration), Technical Standard Order (TSO) equipment standards, FAA AC 43.13-2 (Aircraft Alterations), FAA 91.411 (Altimeter Static System Tests), and FAA 91.413 (ATC Transponder Tests). Designed for avionics technicians to inspect and verify communications, navigation, surveillance, and autopilot systems.

  • Industry: Aviation
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 4-8 hours
  • Role: Avionics Technician / A&P Mechanic
  • Total Items: 30
  • Compliance: FAA 14 CFR Part 43 Aircraft Maintenance, FAA Technical Standard Orders (TSO), FAA AC 43.13-2 Aircraft Alterations, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.411 Altimeter Inspection, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.413 ATC Transponder Inspection

Communication Systems

COM radios and intercom testing.

  • COM1 transmit and receive functional on all channels?
  • COM2 operational (if installed)?
  • Aircraft intercom system operational?
  • COM antenna(s) secure with no corrosion or damage?
  • Audio panel switching correct for all sources?

Navigation Systems

NAV radio and GPS systems.

  • VOR/NAV receiver tracking correctly on ground test?
  • ILS localizer and glideslope operational (if installed)?
  • GPS acquiring satellites and showing accurate position?
  • ADF operational and indicating correctly (if installed)?
  • DME interrogating and displaying distance (if installed)?

Transponder and Altitude

ATC transponder and pitot-static.

  • ADS-B transponder operational in Mode S/C/ES?
  • Transponder tested per FAA 91.413 (within 24 months)?
  • Altimeter and static system test current per FAA 91.411?
  • ADS-B Out compliant per FAA 91.225 (1090 MHz ES)?
  • Altitude encoder accurate within 125 feet?

Database Currency

Avionics database and software.

  • Navigation database current (28-day AIRAC cycle)?
  • Terrain/obstacle database current?
  • Electronic charts current (if applicable)?
  • All avionics software/firmware at approved version?
  • All STC installation requirements verified?

Autopilot and Flight Director

Autopilot system verification.

  • Autopilot engages and holds heading/altitude?
  • Autopilot quick-disconnect verified functional?
  • Flight director commands correct?
  • Autopilot servos inspected for condition?
  • ILS/RNAV approach coupling tested?

Return to Service

Documentation and sign-off.

  • All required tests completed and documented?
  • Aircraft logbook entry completed per FAA 43.9?
  • FAA Form 8130-3 issued for repaired/replaced components?
  • All work performed using FAA-approved maintenance data?
  • Avionics Work Notes

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Why Use This Aircraft Avionics System Inspection and Testing Checklist?

This aircraft avionics system inspection and testing checklist helps aviation teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for avionics technician / a&p mechanic professionals, this checklist covers 30 critical inspection points across 6 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 43 Aircraft Maintenance, FAA Technical Standard Orders (TSO), FAA AC 43.13-2 Aircraft Alterations, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.411 Altimeter Inspection, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.413 ATC Transponder Inspection. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Aircraft Avionics System Inspection and Testing Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 30 inspection items across 6 sections: Communication Systems, Navigation Systems, Transponder and Altitude, Database Currency, Autopilot and Flight Director, Return to Service. It is designed for aviation operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 4-8 hours.

Who should use this Aircraft Avionics System Inspection and Testing Checklist?

This checklist is designed for Avionics Technician / A&P Mechanic professionals in the aviation industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.

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