Originally Posted by
cencal83406
I don't know where you guys get your EFB info from (yes, yes, the EFB Advisory Circular), but many people seem to misinterpret the rules regarding EFBs (maybe even the FSDOs?)
The EFB does *not* need to be physically attached to the aircraft or powered by an aircraft power source to be legal under 10,000 feet.
We are working on EFB certification via iPad (LIDO charts), and there will be no stipulation on altitude of use (would make them useless).
This is the *second* company I've worked at that has or will have EFBs, and the last place definitely did NOT have a mount point for the EFBs. FAA POI signed off, though...
Food for thought... don't over-read that AC and confuse the requirements. What's important is that the trial runs demonstrate that it doesn't interfere with aircraft systems and that it's useable by the flight crew, and that in the event of system failure(s), backup plans are in place.
There is no current US part 121 major airlines with permission to use the Ipad below 10,000 feet. There are attempts to get this approved however at the moment the airlines using the IPad all carry paper jepps. That may change but for the moment it is the rule.
Class 1 EFB is Portable Electronic Device (PED) that is typically stowed during critical phases of flight. Typically Commercial Off-the Shelf Systems (COTS)
The airline's decision follows a successful trial by 100 line and instructor pilots and Air Line Pilots Association representatives, who evaluated the feasibility of using iPads as electronic flight bags this past winter and spring. The iPads contain an app called GoodReader that is loaded with PDF versions of 41 flight, systems and performance manuals, reference cards, and other materials. The electronic manuals include hyperlinks and color graphics, enabling pilots to find information faster and easier, the airline said. Updating can now be accomplished with one tap on the iPad screen instead of the labor-intensive process of replacing individual pages one by one. The iPad is considered a Class 1 electronic device, meaning it is stowed during takeoff and landing under FAA regulations.
Note the last line. Alaska does not use the IPad as a approach plate replacement and for now can't legally do so. There is some doubt if the Ipad will ever be approved at a 121 airline for critical flight use however several different airlines are working on the certification.