A blanket answer regarding the legality of using an iPad as an Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) cannot be provided due to variability in flight operations and legal jurisdictions.
iPads are legally used in Part 91, Part 121, and Part 135 flight operations. It is the responsibility of the pilot and flight operation to ensure the legality of using an iPad as an EFB.
iPads are generally legal to use as EFBs for most Part 91 operations, with aircraft having a maximum gross takeoff weight (MTOW) of less than 12,500 pounds. Part 91 operations, with aircraft having an MTOW of over 12,500 pounds, do not require FAA approval but must comply with EFB testing and documentation requirements outlined in Advisory Circular (AC) 120-76E. FAR 91.21 governs the use of Portable Electronic Devices (PEDs), while AC 91-21.1D complements FAR 91.21 by discussing their use aboard aircraft. AC 91-78A covers Class 1 (portable and unattached to the aircraft) and Class 2 (portable, non-certified devices mounted to the aircraft) EFBs. This AC states that it is legal for Part 91 piston aircraft pilots to use an iPad as an EFB, provided the data is current and valid. Although not required, having a backup data source—either digital or printed—is recommended.
Part 91F operations must also adhere to the EFB testing and documentation requirements outlined in AC 120-76E.
Part 121 and 135 operations must obtain FAA approval on a case-by-case basis. These operators should become familiar with AC 120-76E when seeking authorization to use the iPad as an EFB.
For more detailed information, refer to the article “iPad Legal Briefing – What Pilots Need to Know,” published by iPad Pilot News.
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