The FAA has outlined its official policy toward use of Apple iPads and other tablet computers as Class 1 electronic flight bags (EFBs) in an Information for Operators document (InFO 11011). The InFO lists the guidance that the FAA expects operators to follow when seeking approval to use tablets as EFBs and clarifies the difference between Part 135/91 Subpart K requirements and Part 91. Applicable documents include FAA Order 8900.1 (volume 4, chapter 15, section 1 and volume 3, chapter 18, section 3), AC 120-76A and AC 91-78. An iPad app like Jeppesen’s Mobile TC software, which displays only approach plates, terminal procedures and airport diagrams, “is defined as a Type B software application per AC 120-76A,” according to the InFO.
The FAA notes that Part 135 operators and fractional program managers must receive operation or management specification approval, but Part 91 operators do not need FAA authorization to use tablets as EFBs. “To be used in critical phases of flight, an EFB displaying Type B software must be secured and viewable. A kneeboard is one way to accomplish this.”
