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Altimeter 91.205 vs Inspection Reg Loophole?

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Aircraft Systems, FAA Regulations

Altimeter is required for VFR day, but the regs only require the altimeter (pitot-static system) to be inspected 24 CM for IFR.

1. So, can you fly VFR with an altimeter that has exceeded the inspection date or that has never been inspected?

2. Which leads me to another question: if the airplane is equipped with a VOR that is overdue on inspection, is it still legal to use it for VFR? If, for whatever reason, the simple VOR inspection cannot be performed before takeoff or in the air, it would not be wise to use it for any serious navigation or even VFR practice approaches, right?

Thanks.

2 Answers



  1. John D Collins on Dec 16, 2014

    1. Yes, it is not required to be inspected for VFR only use. See 91.411.

    2. Yes, 91.171 only applies to use of a VOR under IFR. With VFR use, you still have pilotage and other means of knowing where you are. It really depends on what you have available. If all you have is a single VOR and you are planning on flying over a cloud deck while depending solely on the VOR, then it would not be wise. But if all you are doing is flying in your local area and practicing VOR approaches under VFR, it should rarely be an issue as you have a safety pilot and you are also likely talking to ATC with radar. BTW, if you are doing an ILS approach, the VOR check does not apply. It only applies when you are using the VOR.

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  2. Kris Kortokrax on Dec 16, 2014

    1. Yes, you can fly under VFR with an altimeter that has not been inspected You do not even need a sensitive altimeter for VFR.

    2. The VOR check is required for IFR flights where it will be used for navigation. You may use it under VFR.

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