Pitot-Static, Altimeter and Transponder Checks at KPTK

Michigan Aviation performs the 24-calendar-month pitot-static, altimeter and transponder tests required by FAR 91.411 and 91.413 at its FAA Part 145 repair station (certificate KL2R956K) at Oakland County International Airport. Checks can be scheduled alongside other avionics or maintenance work during the same visit.

Quick facts

Regulations
FAR 91.411 (static system, altimeters, altitude reporting) and FAR 91.413 (transponder)
Interval
Every 24 calendar months, and after certain maintenance
Repair station
FAA Part 145 repair station, certificate KL2R956K; ratings include Radio Class 1, Class 2, Class 3 and Instrument Limited
Location
KPTK, Waterford, Michigan
Book
(248) 666-3440 or fly@michiganaviation.com

FAR 91.411

What FAR 91.411 requires

To fly IFR in controlled airspace, each static pressure system, each altimeter and each automatic pressure altitude reporting system must have been tested and inspected within the preceding 24 calendar months under Part 43 Appendices E and F. The static system must also be retested after it is opened and closed (other than using system drains and alternate static valves), and the integrated system must be retested after installation or maintenance on the altitude reporting system where a data correspondence error could be introduced.

You may not fly IFR in controlled airspace above the maximum altitude to which all altimeters and the altitude reporting system were tested. Read FAR 91.411.

FAR 91.413

What FAR 91.413 requires

A transponder required under FAR 91.215(a) may not be used unless it has been tested and inspected within the preceding 24 calendar months under Part 43 Appendix F. This applies to VFR flying too, wherever a transponder is required.

After installation or maintenance where a data correspondence error could be introduced, the integrated system must be retested under Appendix E. Read FAR 91.413.

Authority

Who can perform these checks

  • Altimeter and static system tests (91.411)

    The aircraft manufacturer, a properly equipped repair station holding an appropriate instrument, limited or airframe rating, or a certificated mechanic with an airframe rating for static pressure system tests only.

  • Transponder tests (91.413)

    A properly equipped repair station holding a Radio Class III or appropriate limited rating, a Part 121/135 continuous airworthiness maintenance program holder, or the aircraft manufacturer if it installed the transponder.

So an A&P can perform the static system portion, but not the altimeter, altitude reporting or transponder tests.

Scope

What the test covers

  • Static system leak test
  • Altimeter accuracy checks across the altitude range being tested
  • Correspondence check between the altimeter and the altitude encoder
  • Transponder tests under Part 43 Appendix F

The results are recorded in the aircraft maintenance records.

Booking

How to book at KPTK

Send the following with your request:

  • Tail number and aircraft type
  • Transponder, encoder and ADS-B equipment installed
  • The highest altitude you need the system tested to
  • Date of the last check
  • Any other avionics or maintenance work you want done in the same visit

Request an avionics appointment to confirm scope and scheduling. Planning panel work at the same time? See timing an avionics upgrade around IFR season.

FAQ

Pitot-static and transponder questions

How often are pitot-static and transponder checks required?

Every 24 calendar months, plus after certain maintenance described above.

Do VFR pilots need these checks?

The 91.411 altimeter and static checks apply to IFR flight in controlled airspace. The 91.413 transponder check applies whenever a transponder is required, VFR or IFR.

Can my A&P do the check?

An A&P with an airframe rating can do the static system test only. The altimeter, altitude reporting and transponder tests need a properly rated repair station or the manufacturer.

Can I combine the check with my annual or avionics work?

Yes. Avionics and maintenance are on the same field at KPTK, so the work can be scheduled for the same visit.

What happens if my check has lapsed?

You cannot fly IFR in controlled airspace until the 91.411 tests are current, and you cannot use a required transponder until the 91.413 test is current.

Is the 30-day VOR check part of this?

No. The VOR check under FAR 91.171 is a separate IFR requirement and is not part of the 91.411/91.413 tests.

Due for your 24-month check?

Send your tail number and the date of your last check, and we will confirm scheduling at KPTK.

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