Avionics and Instrument Check Checklist [FREE PDF]

Avionics and instrument systems are subject to rigorous inspection requirements under FAA 14 CFR Part 43 and Part 91, including mandatory altimeter and transponder checks every 24 calendar months. Proper function of navigation, communication, and flight management systems is essential to airworthiness and safe flight operations in controlled airspace. This checklist provides a comprehensive, regulation-aligned inspection procedure ensuring all avionics and instrument systems meet FAA airworthine

  • Industry: Aircraft Maintenance
  • Frequency: Per Event
  • Estimated Time: 45-75 minutes
  • Role: Aircraft Mechanic
  • Total Items: 39
  • Compliance: FAA 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix E, FAA 14 CFR Part 43.15, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.411, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.413, FAA 14 CFR Part 145.109

Pitot-Static System Inspection

Verify the integrity and accuracy of the pitot-static system including altimeter, airspeed indicator, and vertical speed indicator.

  • Has the static system been tested for leaks and confirmed within allowable leak tolerances?
  • Has the altimeter been tested and calibrated by an authorized repair station within the past 24 calendar months?
  • Does the altimeter meet the error tolerances specified in FAA 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix E Table 1?
  • Are pitot tubes, static ports, and drain holes clear of obstructions and free from corrosion or damage?
  • Is the vertical speed indicator (VSI) reading zero on the ground and responding correctly to pressure changes?
  • Record the altimeter calibration test date and the certificate number of the test facility.

Transponder and ADS-B System

Inspect and verify transponder and ADS-B Out equipment functionality and certification status.

  • Has the transponder been tested by a certified repair station within the past 24 calendar months?
  • Is the transponder Mode C altitude encoding verified to be within 125 feet of the aircraft altimeter?
  • Is the ADS-B Out system transmitting required position, velocity, and identification data accurately?
  • Is the ADS-B flight identification code properly set and matching the filed flight plan?
  • Are all transponder and ADS-B antennas undamaged and properly bonded?

Communication Radio Systems

Test VHF communication radios, intercom, and emergency locator transmitter (ELT) for proper operation.

  • Are all VHF communication radios transmitting and receiving clearly on the tested frequency range?
  • Is the SELCAL system (if installed) tested and responding correctly to all assigned tones?
  • Has the ELT battery been inspected and confirmed within its service life and recharge date compliance?
  • Has the ELT been tested in the first 5 minutes of any hour for proper signal output without radiation on 121.5 MHz?
  • Is the cockpit audio system and interphone functioning correctly for all crew positions?
  • Are all COM radio frequency displays and selector mechanisms functioning without fault?

Navigation Systems Inspection

Inspect VOR, ILS, GPS, and inertial navigation systems for accuracy and airworthiness.

  • Has the VOR receiver been checked using an approved VOR test facility (VOT) within the past 30 days for IFR flight?
  • Is the ILS localizer and glide slope receiver functioning correctly and within alignment tolerances?
  • Is the GPS/GNSS navigation unit current with the latest navigation database cycle?
  • Is the GPS RAIM (Receiver Autonomous Integrity Monitoring) function tested and confirmed operational?
  • Are all navigation system antennas structurally secure and free from damage or delamination?

Primary Flight Instruments

Inspect gyroscopic instruments, magnetic compass, and standby instrument systems.

  • Are attitude indicator and directional gyro (or AHRS) erecting normally and displaying accurate indications?
  • Is the magnetic compass free from excessive deviation and within allowable compass error limits?
  • Is the current compass correction card installed, legible, and dated within the past compass swing?
  • Are all standby instruments including backup altimeter, airspeed, and attitude indicators functional?
  • Is the turn coordinator or turn-and-slip indicator functioning correctly with proper ball centering?
  • Are all instrument panel lights, annunciators, and warning systems operational and verified?

Avionics Wiring and Electrical Power

Inspect avionics bus power, circuit breakers, wiring harnesses, and equipment rack integrity.

  • Are all avionics circuit breakers properly sized, labeled, and free from signs of overheating or tripping history?
  • Are avionics bay wiring harnesses free from chafing, cracked insulation, improper routing, or unsecured bundles?
  • Are all avionics connectors properly seated, safetied, and free from corrosion or bent pins?
  • Is the avionics master bus voltage within manufacturer-specified tolerances with all systems operating?
  • Are all avionics cooling fans and ventilation ducts clear of obstruction and functioning correctly?

Documentation and Return to Service

Verify all avionics test records, logbook entries, and return-to-service documentation are complete and compliant.

  • Have all 24-month altimeter and transponder test results been recorded with test equipment serial numbers and calibration dates?
  • Have all avionics discrepancies found during inspection been corrected or documented as deferred maintenance with MEL authorization?
  • Has the avionics database currency been verified and logged for GPS, FMS, and terrain awareness systems?
  • Has the aircraft maintenance log been updated with a complete description of the avionics inspection performed?
  • Has the return-to-service entry been signed by an appropriately certificated person per FAA 14 CFR Part 43.7?
  • Provide any additional notes on avionics findings, deferred items, or operational limitations applied.

Related Aviation Checklists

Related Aircraft Maintenance Checklists

Why Use This Avionics and Instrument Check Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This avionics and instrument check checklist [free pdf] helps aircraft maintenance teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for aircraft mechanic professionals, this checklist covers 39 critical inspection points across 7 sections. Recommended frequency: per event.

Ensures compliance with FAA 14 CFR Part 43 Appendix E, FAA 14 CFR Part 43.15, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.411, FAA 14 CFR Part 91.413, FAA 14 CFR Part 145.109. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Avionics and Instrument Check Checklist [FREE PDF] cover?

This checklist covers 39 inspection items across 7 sections: Pitot-Static System Inspection, Transponder and ADS-B System, Communication Radio Systems, Navigation Systems Inspection, Primary Flight Instruments, Avionics Wiring and Electrical Power, Documentation and Return to Service. It is designed for aircraft maintenance operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed per event. Each completion takes approximately 45-75 minutes.

Who should use this Avionics and Instrument Check Checklist [FREE PDF]?

This checklist is designed for Aircraft Mechanic professionals in the aircraft maintenance 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.

Browse More Checklists