Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) Practice Exam

Which of the following requires a transponder check every 24 calendar months?

1. Aircraft operated for hire

2. IFR flight operations

3. All aircraft under any circumstance

4. Only aircraft above 10,000 feet

The correct answer is: IFR flight operations

The requirement for a transponder check every 24 calendar months specifically pertains to aircraft that are operated under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). This regulation is designed to ensure that transponders are functioning correctly, as they play a crucial role in radar identification and tracking by air traffic control. Transponders provide important safety information about an aircraft's altitude and flight details, which become even more critical during IFR operations where precise navigation and communication are required. While other types of operations may have different requirements or considerations regarding transponder checks, IFR operations have a standardized regulatory framework due to the nature of their consistent engagement with controlled airspace and the necessity for heightened situational awareness. As a result, the adherence to a 24-month check cycle for transponders in these operations is vital to maintaining the safety and integrity of the air traffic system.