Equipment test intervals
Equipment with its own calibration or test clock, separate from the general inspection schedule (Standard 625 Appendix C):
| Equipment | Applies to | Action | Interval | Cite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Non-stabilized magnetic direction indicator (MDI) | all | calibrate, install dated correction card | 12 months | item 10(a) |
| Altimeters and other altimetry devices | aircraft operating IFR, or VFR in Class B/C airspace, or in Class C/D airspace designated as Transponder Airspace | calibrate | 24 months | item 13(a) |
| ATC transponder, incl. any associated altitude-sensing/reporting mechanism | all | test | 24 months | item 14 |
ELT tests (item 12), by frequency and battery type:
| ELT | Battery | Test | Max interval |
|---|---|---|---|
| 121.5 MHz only | non-water-activated | performance | 12 months |
| 121.5 MHz only | water-activated | performance | 5 years |
| 406 + 121.5 MHz | non-water-activated | operational | 12 months |
| 406 + 121.5 MHz | non-water-activated | performance | 24 months |
| 406 + 121.5 MHz | water-activated | performance | 5 years |
- ELT batteries: manufacturer-recommended interval, no fixed number (item 12(a)(iii), 12(b)(iii)).
Exception: small aircraft reciprocating engines, non-commercial private operation: no hard time between overhauls, not even a calendar-time limit (item 7 information note).
Trap: ELT water-activated = 5 years, non-water-activated = 12 months (121.5 MHz) or 12 operational / 24 performance (406 MHz); never collapse the 406 MHz unit's two clocks into one number.
References
- Standard 625 Appendix C item 7
- Standard 625 Appendix C item 10
- Standard 625 Appendix C item 12
- Standard 625 Appendix C item 13
- Standard 625 Appendix C item 14