The FAA today released Information for Operators (“InFO”) 11011 regarding “The Apple iPad and Other Suitable Tablet Computing Devices as Electronic Flight Bags (EFB).” The InFO is intended to provide “information about the use of the iPad and other suitable tablet computing devices as EFBs. In addition, it provides information about EFB use and the Flight Standards Information Management System (FSIMS) process that may be helpful to operators seeking authorization to use an EFB.”
Although InFO 11011 is intended for certificated operators (e.g. Part 135 air carriers and Part 91K fractional operators), the InFO also notes that Part 91 operators other than under Part 91K, do not need FAA authorization for use of an EFB. According to the FAA, the use of an EFB in lieu of paper is the decision of the Part 91 aircraft operator and/or the pilot in command. However, Part 91 operators will still need to comply with the installation and airworthiness requirements specified in AC 120-76A for use of EFBs such as the iPad.
