Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

How often must the automatic pressure altitude reporting system be inspected for IFR operations?

1. Every 12 calendar months

2. Within the preceding 24 calendar months

3. Every 30 days

4. At each annual inspection

The correct answer is: Within the preceding 24 calendar months

The automatic pressure altitude reporting system must be inspected within the preceding 24 calendar months for IFR operations to ensure its proper functionality. This requirement is in place because accurate altitude reporting is critical for safe flight operations and collision avoidance in controlled airspace. By having this inspection interval, it helps maintain the integrity of the aircraft's instruments and systems, ensuring that pilots receive accurate altitude information while in IFR conditions. This periodic inspection also confirms that any potential issues are addressed in a timely manner, thus enhancing safety. In contrast, while other intervals such as annual inspections or calendar month checks are relevant for specific aspects of aircraft maintenance, they do not apply to the specific regulation concerning the automatic pressure altitude reporting system.