AC 120-76C

U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular Subject: Guidelines for the Certification, Airworthiness, and Operational Use of Electronic Flight Bags Date: 5/13/14 Initiated by: AFS-400 AC No: 120-76C Change:

1. PURPOSE. This joint Flight Standards Service (AFS) and Aircraft Certification Service (AIR) advisory circular (AC) contains guidance on the operational use of Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs). It is intended for all operators conducting flight operations under Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 121, 125, 135, or 91 subpart F (part 91F) and part 91 subpart K (part 91K) who want to replace required paper information or utilize other select functions of an EFB. This AC sets forth an acceptable means, but not the only means, to obtain Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) authorization for the operational use of EFBs.

Part 91 operators can find additional EFB information in the current edition of AC 91-78, Use of Class 1 or Class 2 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB). For guidance on the installation of EFB components, refer to the current edition of AC 20-173, Installation of Electronic Flight Bag Components.

2. EFFECTIVE DATE. The effective date of this AC is April 25, 2014.

3. CANCELLATION. This AC cancels AC 120-76B, Guidelines for the Certification, Airworthiness, and Operational Use of Electronic Flight Bags, dated June 1, 2012.

4. RELATED 14 CFR PARTS. Parts 21, 23, 25, 27, 29, 43, 91F, 91K, 121, 125, and 135.

5. DEFINITIONS. The following definitions are specific to this AC and may differ from those definitions contained in other published references.

a. Administrative Control Process. Operator-administered procedure to record and log the removal or addition of installed EFB components.

b. Approved Software. Software approved by the FAA using the current edition of RTCA/DO-178, Software Considerations in Airborne Systems and Equipment Certification, compliance, or other acceptable means. For guidance refer to AC 20-173.

c. Class 1 Electronic Flight Bag (EFB) Hardware. Portable commercial off-the-shelf (COTS)-based computers, considered to be portable electronic devices (PED) with no FAA design, production, or installation approval for the device and its internal components. Class 1 EFBs are not mounted to the aircraft, connected to aircraft systems for data, or connected to a dedicated aircraft power supply. Class 1 EFBs can be temporarily connected to an existing aircraft power supply for battery recharging. Class 1 EFBs that have Type B applications for aeronautical charts, approach charts, or an electronic checklist (ECL) must be appropriately

Par 4 Page 2 secured and viewable during critical phases of flight and must not interfere with flight control movement.

NOTE: Portable Class 1 EFB components are not considered to be part of aircraft type design (i.e., not in the aircraft type certificate (TC) or Supplemental Type Certificate (STC)).

d. Class 2 EFB Hardware. Portable COTS-based computers, considered to be PEDs with no FAA design, production, or installation approval for the device and its internal components.

Class 2 EFBs are typically mounted. They must be capable of being easily removed from or attached to their mounts by flightcrew personnel. Class 2 EFBs can be temporarily connected to an existing aircraft power supply for battery recharging. They may connect to aircraft power, data ports (wired or wireless), or installed antennas, provided those connections are installed in accordance with AC 20-173. (Portable Class 2 EFB components are not considered to be part of aircraft type design; i.e., not in the aircraft TC or STC.)

e. Class 3 EFB Hardware. EFBs installed in accordance with applicable airworthiness regulations. Refer to AC 20-173 for guidance on the installation of EFB components.

f. Critical Phases of Flight. Includes all ground operations involving taxi, takeoff, and landing, and all other flight operations conducted below 10,000 feet, except cruise flight.

NOTE: For the purpose of this AC, we’ve adopted the critical phases of flight definition in part 121, § 121.542.

g. EFB. An electronic display system intended primarily for flight deck or cabin crew member use that includes the hardware and software necessary to support an intended function.

EFB devices can display a variety of aviation data or perform basic calculations

(e.g., performance data, fuel calculations, etc.). In the past, some of these functions were traditionally accomplished using paper references or were based on data provided to the flightcrew by an airline’s flight dispatch function. The scope of the EFB functionality may include various other hosted databases and applications. Physical EFB displays may use various technologies, formats, and forms of communication. An EFB must be able to host and actively display Type A and/or Type B software applications.

h. Hosted Application. Software running on an EFB that is not installed or considered part of aircraft type design.

i. Interactive Information. Information presented on the EFB that, via software applications, can be selected and rendered in a number of dynamic ways. This includes variables in the information presented based on data-oriented software algorithms, concepts of decluttering, and selectable composition as opposed to precomposed information.

j. Mounted. Any portable device that is attached to a permanently installed mounting device.

k. Mounting Device. These include arm-mounted, cradle, clips, docking stations, etc.

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l. PED. Section 91.21; § 121.306; part 125, § 125.204; and part 135, § 135.144 refer to PEDs and place restrictions on the in-flight use of PEDs. There are two types of PEDs and two methods of compliance with these regulations.

(1) The non-EFB PED method of compliance with PED regulations is in the current edition of AC 91.21-1, Use of Portable Electronic Devices Aboard Aircraft. Use of these PEDs is prohibited in instrument flight rules (IFR) flight operations, except in cruise flight.

(2) The EFB PED method of compliance with PED regulations is in FAA Order 8900.1, Flight Standards Information Management System (FSIMS), Volume 4, Chapter 15, Section 1, Electronic Flight Bag Operational Authorization Process, and this AC.

NOTE: For a PED to be considered an EFB, the PED must host and actively display Type A, B, and/or C software applications as applicable, and requires the issuance of Operations Specifications (OpSpec) paragraph A061 “Use of Electronic Flight Bag.”

m. Precomposed Information. Information previously composed into a static, composed state (non-interactive). The composed displays have consistent, defined, and verifiable content, and formats that are fixed in composition.

n. Stowed. A portable device that is placed in a secure stowage location but is not available for use or view by the pilot in that location.

o. Transmitting Portable Electronic Devices (T-PED). PEDs that have intended radio frequency (RF) transmission capabilities.

p. Type A Software Applications. Type A software applications are those paper replacement applications primarily intended for use during flight planning, on the ground, or during noncritical phases of flight having a failure condition classification considered to be a minor hazard or less. Appendix 1 lists examples of Type A software applications.

q. Type B Software Applications. Type B software applications are those paper replacement applications that provide the aeronautical information required to be accessible for each flight at the pilot station and are primarily intended for use during flight planning and all phases of flight. Type B applications include miscellaneous, nonrequired applications (e.g., aircraft cabin and exterior surveillance video displays, maintenance applications) having a failure condition classification considered to be a minor hazard or less. Appendix 2 lists examples of Type B software applications.

r. Type C Software Applications. Type C software applications are approved by the FAA using RTCA/DO-178 or another acceptable means. These are “non-EFB” software applications found in avionics and include intended functions for communications, navigation, and surveillance that require FAA design, production, and installation approval. Type C applications are approved software for surface and airborne functions with a failure condition classification considered to be a major hazard or higher.

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s. Viewable Stowage. A portable device that is secured in an existing provision with the intended function to hold charts or acceptable temporarily secured portable device viewable to the pilot (e.g., kneeboards,suction cups, etc.).

6. RELATED READING MATERIALS. See Appendix 3 for a list of references.

7. BACKGROUND. Class 1 and Class 2 EFBs are both considered PEDs. The use of any PED in an aircraft is subject to compliance with PED regulations (§§ 91.21, 121.306, 125.204, and 135.144). The PED regulations’ applicability addresses certificated operators and IFR aircraft. Aircraft operated under part 91, except for parts 91F and 91K, require no EFB authorization or compliance with this AC, provided the EFB does not replace any equipment or operating information required by the regulations. For all aircraft, PED regulatory compliance is required. PED regulatory methods for compliance are addressed in this AC and AC 91.21-1.

There are two separate methods of compliance respective to non-EFB PEDs and EFB PEDs.

Non-EFB PED compliance is in accordance with AC 91.21-1 and restricts the use of PEDs in flight operations, except when safely in cruise and/or above 10,000 feet above ground level (AGL). All PEDs are subject to these restrictions unless they are authorized EFBs. To be an authorized EFB, the PED must host one or more of the authorized EFB functions listed in Appendices 1 and 2 and meet the additional evaluation criteria in paragraphs 11 and 12.

8. APPLICABILITY. One of the major motivators for using an EFB is to reduce or eliminate the need for paper and other reference materials in the cockpit. This AC describes the EFB functions, features, and selected hosted applications, and applies to the authorization for use of both portable and installed EFBs.

9. SCOPE. The primary intent of the guidance material described in this AC is to assist operators and flightcrews in transitioning from the paper products in a traditional flight bag to an electronic format. Use this AC in combination with other material contained in current communications, navigation, and surveillance ACs or other FAA-approved guidance material.

The intent of this AC is to provide specific guidance material for certain EFB applications and to establish guidance for operational use of EFBs by flight deck crewmembers and other crewmembers in the cabin. The intention of this AC is not to supersede existing operational guidance material. Do not use this AC to add own-ship position in-flight on Class 1 and Class 2 EFBs. If you use the means described in this AC to display own-ship position on the airport surface on an EFB, you must follow it entirely.

10. DISPLAY OF OWN-SHIP POSITION. The display of an own-ship symbol limited to the airport surface is identified by this AC as a Type B software application and limited to functions having a failure condition classification considered to be a minor hazard or less, and only for use at speeds of less than 80 knots (kts). Type B software applications using own-ship may be considered only an aid to situational awareness; no use in operations other than an aid to situational awareness will be authorized (i.e., not appropriate for: surface navigation, surface alerting, time-based operations, guidance, maneuvering, and control functions, etc.). Display of own-ship position on the airport surface as a Type B application is intended to help flightcrews orient themselves on an airport chart/map, and to improve pilot positional awareness during taxi takeoff, and upon landing. Type B software applications using display of own-ship position on the airport surface are not sufficient to be used as the basis for operational guidance,

Par 9 Page 5 maneuvering, and control, and assume compliance with the operational guidelines in AC 120-74, Parts 91, 121, 125, and 135 Flightcrew Procedures during Taxi Operations. Airborne and surface functions with a failure condition classification of major hazard or higher, which includes depiction of own-ship position in-flight, require approved software (refer to AC 20-173).

11. EFB CLASSIFICATIONS FOR AIRWORTHINESS CERTIFICATION AND AUTHORIZATION FOR USE. All information contained in the EFB intended for operational use must be current and up-to-date. Refer to Appendices 1 and 2 for a list of EFB application examples. In addition to the applications listed in Appendices 1 and 2, the Aircraft Evaluation Group (AEG) may have a record of Flight Standardization Board (FSB) reports or Operational Suitability Reports (OSR) on file that contain hardware and software applications/functions that have been evaluated. Airworthiness regulations apply to installed EFB components. They do not apply to portable EFB components other than for specifications associated with the installed components (i.e., mounting (size and weight), power (maximum electrical load, voltage, and current frequency), and data connectivity (input/output (I/O) data specifications and security)).

For guidance on the installation of EFB components, refer to AC 20-173. The following guidance is used to determine EFB classification as well as roles and responsibilities.

a. Class 1 EFB Hardware. These EFBs are portable COTS devices that are not mounted to the aircraft. Class 1 EFBs do not have dedicated power connectivity and have no data connectivity with installed aircraft systems. Class 1 EFBs that have Type B applications for aeronautical charts, approach charts, or ECLs, must be appropriately secured and viewable during critical phases of flight and must not interfere with flight control movement or pilot egress. An EFB that is temporarily secured may still be considered a Class 1 EFB if it is not mounted to the aircraft. The operator must document EFB non-interference to show operational suitability and compliance with the guidance in subparagraph 11.f.(2) or 11.f.(3) of this AC when intended for use in all phases of flight. For Class 1 devices with Type A applications that are not required in critical phases of flight, the operator must document EFB non-interference to show operational suitability and compliance with the guidance in AC 91.21-1 and this AC.

b. Class 2 EFB Hardware. These EFBs are typically mounted to the aircraft by a mounting device and may be connected to a data source, a hardwired power source, and an installed antenna, provided those connections are installed in accordance with applicable airworthiness regulations. In order to be considered portable, the EFB must be removable from the flight deck without the use of tools, and a pilot crewmember must be able to perform the task. Portable EFBs must be located on the flight deck and controlled by the flightcrew or, as applicable, in the cabin and controlled by the cabin crew during all flight operations. Although attached to the aircraft via a mounting device, Class 2 EFB hardware must be accessible to the flightcrew and must be removable without the use of tools. The components of the Class 2 EFB include all the hardware and software needed to support EFB intended functions. A Class 2 EFB may consist of modular components (e.g., computer processing unit, display, controls). Any EFB hardware not accessible to the flightcrew on the flight deck and/or not portable must be installed in accordance with the applicable airworthiness regulations. For guidance on the installation of EFB components, refer to AC 20-173.

NOTE: Portable EFBs are limited to hosting Type A and Type B software applications with intended functions limited to a minor failure effect

Par 10 Page 6 classification. However, Type B software applications using a depiction of an own-ship symbol are limited to airport surface operations only and to speeds of less than 80 kts ground speed.

(1) The operator must document PED non-interference regulatory compliance as explained in AC 91.21-1 and subparagraph 1l.f.(2) in this AC as part of the EFB authorization process if Type A,B, or C software applications will be used during a critical phase of flight.

(2) FAA airworthiness approval is limited to the aircraft connectivity provisions

(i.e., mounting device (e.g., arm-mounted, cradle, yoke-clip), data connectivity, installed antennas, and power connection) installed in accordance with applicable airworthiness regulations.

• EFB mounting requires installation in accordance with the applicable airworthiness regulations for the integrity of mounting, location, non-impeded egress, accessibility to instruments and controls, physical interference, etc.

• EFB data connections require installation in accordance with the applicable airworthiness regulations to ensure non-interference and isolation from aircraft systems during transmission and reception. The EFB may receive information from any aircraft system, as well as transmit or receive information for Airline Administrative Control (AAC)/Airline Operational Communications (AOC) purposes. Connectivity may be wired or wireless (refer to AC 20-173).

• Class 2 EFB hardware, internal components, and software do not require FAA airworthiness approval.

(3) Class 2 EFB mounting devices, installed antennas, power connections, and data connectivity provisions installed in accordance with applicable airworthiness regulations may require Airplane Flight Manual (AFM) or Airplane Flight Manual Supplement (AFMS) revisions.

(4) Removal/attachment of a Class 2 EFB from the aircraft may be completed by the flightcrew without maintenance tasks through an administrative control process if the EFB is assigned to the aircraft (e.g., logbook entry) or the EFB may be assigned to the pilot without administrative control.

(5) Operators must determine non-interference and operational suitability with existing aircraft systems for all flight phases and ensure that the system performs the intended function.

c. Class 3 EFB Hardware. EFBs installed in accordance with the applicable airworthiness regulations. For guidance on the installation of EFB components, refer to AC 20-173.

d. Type A EFB Software Application. Appendix 1 lists examples of EFB-hosted software applications. Type A software applications include precomposed, fixed presentations of data currently presented in paper format. Type A applications are typically intended to be used on the ground or during noncritical phases of flight having a failure condition classification considered to be a minor hazard or less. The operator must possess evidence demonstrating that operational requirements are met when using the applications listed in Appendix 1.

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(1) Type A application software does not require compliance with RTCA/DO-178.

(2) Type A application software may reside on any EFB hardware classification (Class 1, 2, or 3).

(3) The operator can use the application after successful completion of the user/operator evaluation (including flightcrew training, checking, and currency requirements).

(4) Type A application software for Weight and Balance (W&B) are applications that present existing information found in the applicable AFM, pilot’s operating handbook (POH), or W&B manual. These Type A applications are exact electronic replications of the printed document they replace (e.g., PDF files).

(5) Type A application software for aircraft performance are applications that present existing information found in the applicable AFM or POH. These Type A applications are electronic replications of the printed document they replace (e.g., PDF files).

(6) Operators must determine the usage of hardware and/or software architectural features, people, procedures, and/or equipment to eliminate, reduce, or control risks associated with an identified failure in a system.

(7) The operator should provide evidence demonstrating that the EFB operating system and hosted application software can perform the intended function and do not provide false or hazardously misleading information. This evidence includes demonstration that software revisions will not corrupt the data integrity of the original software performance.

e. Type B EFB Software Applications. Appendix 2 lists examples of EFB-hosted software applications. Type B applications include dynamic, interactive applications that can manipulate data and presentation for operationally required and other paper reference materials. Type B applications are applications that are intended for use during critical phases of flight having a failure condition classification considered to be a minor hazard or less. The operator must provide evidence demonstrating that the operational requirements are met when using the applications listed in Appendix 2.

(1) Type B application software does not require compliance with RTCA/DO-178.

(2) Type B application software may reside on any EFB hardware classification (Class 1, 2, or 3).

(3) The operator can use the application after successful completion of the user/operator evaluation (including flightcrew training, checking, and currency requirements) or in accordance with FSB reports.

(4) Type B applications are used to display precomposed or interactive information such as navigation or approach charts, as well as depiction of an own-ship symbol limited to airport surface operations only at speeds of less than 80 kts gorund speed. Required flight information should be readily available for display for each applicable phase of flight. Depiction of own-ship position limited to airport surface operations at speeds of less than 80 kts ground speed can be

Par 10 Page 8 authorized if the operator properly evaluates them (see FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 4, Chapter 15, Electronic Flight Bag Authorization for Use, for criteria).

NOTE: Class 1 or Class 2 EFBs must not display own-ship position while in flight.

(a) Operators must determine the usage of hardware and/or software architectural features, people, procedures, and/or equipment to eliminate, reduce, or control risks associated with an identified failure in a system.

(b) The operator should provide evidence demonstrating that the EFB operating system and hosted application software can perform the intended function and do not provide false or hazardously misleading information. This evidence includes a demonstration that software revisions do not corrupt the data integrity or intended function of the original installed software configuration.

(c) Data link EFB functions may display approved sources of weather for strategic/flight planning purposes. Weather and aeronautical information such as data-linked meteorology information (MET) and Aeronautical Information Service (AIS) products are for advisory use only. These products enhance situational awareness, but lack the service delivery reliability and updating necessary for tactical maneuvering/use. Do not use data-linked MET and AIS products as a sole source for making tactical in-flight decisions regarding flight safety when avoiding adverse weather, airspace, or obstacle hazards (e.g., negotiating a path through a weather hazard area). Current data-linked MET and AIS products may support strategic decisionmaking (e.g., route selection to avoid a weather hazard area in its entirety). For more information on this subject, refer to the current editions of AC 00-45, Aviation Weather Services, and AC 00-63, Use of Cockpit Displays of Digital Weather and Operational Information.

(d) Data link graphical weather from sources such as XM radio and next generation weather radar (NEXRAD) may be from approved sources of advisory weather information and can only be used for strategic/flight planning purposes. Do not use data link graphical weather information for tactical decisions during critical phases of flight, because data quality is uncontrolled for aviation use. Do not use data link graphical weather data as a substitute for airborne weather radar or thunderstorm detection equipment.

(e) Type B applications for W&B are software applications based on the existing information found in the FAA-approved AFM, POH, or W&B manual for an aircraft. Type B W&B applications use data management software to provide data reference and mathematical calculations to simplify determination of aircraft W&B. Type B W&B applications adhere to existing approved data and must be validated for accuracy in the entire aircraft operating envelope. Type B W&B applications may use algorithms to calculate W&B results or may use basic mathematics combined with data spreadsheets to determine W&B results. Algorithms may have the ability to interpolate data but must not extrapolate, and therefore must be tested and proven accurate by the manufacturer or operator to represent the AFM- or Rotorcraft Flight Manual (RFM)-approved data. Type B W&B applications are produced for a specific aircraft and based on AFM-approved data.

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(f) Type B applications for performance are software applications based on existing published data as found in the FAA-approved AFM, POH, or performance manual for an aircraft. Type B performance applications use data management software to provide data reference and mathematical calculations to simplify determination of applicable aircraft performance data. Type B performance applications must adhere to this published data and must be validated for accurate determination of aircraft performance for the entire operating envelope.

Type B aircraft performance applications may use algorithms to calculate results or may use data spreadsheets to determine results. Algorithms may have the ability to interpolate but must not extrapolate beyond the information contained in the current published data. These algorithms have to be tested and verified to meet existing FAA-approved AFM performance data. Type B performance applications must not extrapolate or project results not represented by the AFM-approved data point’s envelope of conditions including, but not limited to, pressure, altitude, temperature, and weight. Type B aircraft performance applications are produced for a specific aircraft type based on approved AFM data.

(g) Type B W&B and/or performance software applications require validation testing prior to EFB operational use. Applications using data spreadsheets where each data point is entered into software data and then referenced for output must be verified for accurate data selection. Applications based on algorithms that calculate output must be verified to accurately represent the AFM data they replace. Creation of a new algorithmic method to replace AFM data is not allowed in Type B applications. Type B algorithms must adhere to the same data methodology as the AFM-approved data. The Type B application must always be demonstrated to be traceable to the paper AFM-approved data. These Type B applications must not allow entry input or output of data outside the AFM data envelope(s). Sufficient data points based on application architecture must be tested and documented to show that the applications accurately adhere to and are limited to the AFM-approved data envelope segments and, for performance, must represent net climb gradients with considerations including, but not limited to, level-off, acceleration, transitions, and engine takeoff power time limits. Type B applications for performance must accurately address engine inoperative gradients and obstacle clearance plane and/or weight limits. Transition from airport area performance to en route climb performance and obstacle clearance must be addressed. Type B applications are suitable only insofar as they accurately reproduce the paper AFM data. Type B W&B and/or performance applications must meet the approval criteria listed in FAA Order 8900.1, Volume 4, Chapter 3, Section 3, Approval of Performance Data Sections of CFMs.

(h) Develop operational procedures for use in aircraft. These procedures should define the roles that the flightcrew and dispatch/flight following have in creating and reviewing performance calculations. Operations specifications (OpSpecs) must be issued as appropriate.

(i) Type B applications require a validation period to ensure the reliability of the EFB functions prior to the removal of the applicable paper documents. Operational procedures must be established to verify the accuracy of inputs and outputs of Type B application software.

Validation is a necessary part of risk mitigation to ensure the effective function and reliability of EFB hardware, software, and procedures. A validation report documenting results of the validation period must be completed and available prior to removal of the applicable paper documents.

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f. Type C Applications. Type C applications are FAA-approved software using RTCA/DO-178 compliance or other acceptable means. These “non-EFB” software applications are those found in avionics, including intended functions for communications, navigation, and surveillance that require FAA design, production, and installation approval. Develop approved software using the guidance in AC 20-173.

(1) Approved software applications for W&B and/or performance are those applications approved by AIR for a specific aircraft and are approved as part of the AFM or as an AFMS.

(2) Approved software applications will have an FAA-approved AFM or AFMS.

(3) The operator may utilize approved software W&B and/or performance applications on any class of EFB provided the software system requirements are met (refer to AC 20-173).

Approved software applications for W&B and/or performance are those applications approved by AIR for a specific aircraft. AIR-evaluated software applications will have an FAA-approved flight manual supplement. Contact the responsible AEG for assistance regarding applications offered by aircraft manufacturers or STC holders for specific aircraft.

(4) A Technical Standard Order Authorization (TSOA) is a dual FAA certification design and production approval with a streamlined approval process. Operators may apply for authorization to use a TSOA for certain Type C applications. You can find a current list of TSOs on the FAA Internet Web site at http://rgl.gov. You will also find the TSO Index of Articles at the same site. Title 14 CFR part 21 subpart O defines the regulatory basis for a TSOA. Type C applications that receive a TSOA may be authorized for use on Class 2 or Class 3 EFBs provided they meet the following conditions:

(a) In-flight depiction of own-ship position is classified as a major safety effect and cannot be formally authorized for use on a Class 1 or Class 2 EFB.

(b) Type A and/or Type B EFB applications may reside with TSOA Type C applications provided they do not interfere with the Type C application(s) (refer to AC 20-173 for guidance).

12. PORTABLE EFB HARDWARE CONSIDERATIONS.

a. Paper Data Removal. Two or more operational EFBs are required to remove paper products that contain Type B software applications for in-flight use (e.g., aeronautical charts, checklists, emergency procedures, etc.) Type A software applications are not subject to this requirement. The design of the EFB function requires that no single failure or common mode error may cause the loss of required aeronautical information.

b. Electrical Power Source. System design must consider the source of electrical power, the independence of the power sources for multiple EFBs, and the potential need for an independent battery source. Battery-powered EFBs that have aircraft power available for recharging the EFB battery are considered to have a suitable backup power source. EFBs that do not have a battery power source and that are used in place of paper products required by the operating rules are required to have at least one EFB connected to an aircraft power bus. For guidance on the design and installation of aircraft electrical power sources, refer to AC 20-173.

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c. Battery Backup. Useful battery life must be established and documented for battery powered EFBs. Aircraft operators must be able to determine the useful life of the EFB battery.

Each battery powered EFB providing aeronautical information or software applications pertinent to the safe operation of the aircraft must have at least one of the following before departing the gate:

(1) An established procedure to recharge the battery from aircraft power during flight operations;

(2) A battery or batteries with a combined useful battery life to ensure EFB is operational during taxi and flight operations to include diversions and expected delays; or

(3) An acceptable mitigation strategy, authorized by the principal inspector (PI) with certificate oversight responsibility with concurrence from Air Transportation Division (AFS-200), to ensure products that contain aeronautical charts, checklists, or other data required by the operating rules are available. The certificate holder must submit a plan to the FAA PI assigned with oversight responsibility for subsequent coordination and review with geographically responsible AFS Regional Office (RO) and AFS-200.

d. Battery Replacement. In the case of a replaceable battery, if the EFB manufacturer has not specified a battery replacement interval, then the original battery (or cell) manufacturer’s specified replacement interval should be adhered to.

e. Lithium Batteries. Rechargeable lithium-type batteries are becoming more common as a source of principal power or standby/backup power in EFBs. Lithium-ion or lithium-polymer (lithium-ion polymer) batteries are two types of rechargeable lithium batteries commonly used to power EFBs. The word “battery” used in this AC refers to the battery pack, its cells, and its circuitry.

(1) Safety Concerns. These types of batteries are vulnerable to overcharging and over-discharging, which can (through internal failure) result in overheating. Overheating may result in thermal runaway, which can cause the release of either molten burning lithium or a flammable electrolyte. Once one cell in a battery pack goes into thermal runaway, it produces enough heat to cause adjacent cells to also go into thermal runaway. The resulting fire can flare repeatedly as each cell ruptures and releases its contents. For additional information on fighting fires caused by lithium-type batteries in portable electronic devices see SAFO 09013.

(2) Design Recommendation. We recommend the rechargeable lithium-type battery design be compliant with the provisions of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) 1625-2008, IEEE Standard for Rechargeable Batteries for Portable Computing. This standard drives design considerations for system integration, cell, pack, host device, and total system reliability. It also covers how to maintain critical operational parameters with respect to time, environment, extremes in temperature, and the management of component failure.

(3) Related Regulations. There are other regulations that may apply to the use of lithium batteries onboard aircraft, including the Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations for air travel found in Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations (49 CFR) part 175, § 175.10. DOT regulations do not allow more than 25 grams of equivalent lithium content (ELC) or 300 watt

Par 11 Page 12 hours per battery pack in air travel. For more information refer to http://safetravel.dot.gov. DOT regulations apply to the shipment of lithium ion batteries, not to batteries installed in PEDs.

However, if spare batteries are carried, operators should refer to current DOT regulations.

(4) Lithium Battery Safety and Testing Standards. Due to their proximity to the flightcrew and potential hazard to safe operation of the aircraft, the use of rechargeable lithium-type batteries in portable EFBs located in the aircraft cockpit call for the following standards. Operators must provide evidence of the following testing standards to determine whether rechargeable lithium-type batteries used to power EFBs are acceptable for use and for recharging. Operators must provide evidence of the standards in subparagraphs 11.e.(4)(a) and either 11.e.(4)(b), (c), or (d) of this AC. Refer to the following current editions:

(a) United Nations (UN) Transportation Regulations.

UN ST/SG/AC.10/11/Rev.5-2009, Recommendations on the Transport of Dangerous Goods, Manual of Tests and Criteria.

(b) Underwriters Laboratory (UL). UL 1642, Lithium Batteries; UL 2054, Household and Commercial Batteries; and UL 60950-1, Information Technology Equipment - Safety.

NOTE: Compliance with UL 2054 indicates compliance with UL 1642.

(c) International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). International Standard IEC 62133, Secondary cells and batteries containing alkaline or other non-acid electrolytes - Safety requirements for portable sealed secondary cells, and for batteries made from them, for use in portable applications.

(d) RTCA/DO-311, Minimum Operational Performance Standards for Rechargeable Lithium Battery Systems. An appropriate airworthiness testing standard such as RTCA/DO-311 can be used to address concerns regarding overcharging, over-discharging, and the flammability of cell components. RTCA/DO-311 is intended to test permanently installed equipment; however, these tests are applicable and sufficient to test EFB rechargeable lithium-type batteries. If RTCA/DO-311 is used, then RTCA/DO-311 Table 4-1 and appendix C should be used for guidance on applicable testing.

(5) Showing Compliance. The operator provides the principal inspector (PI) with records of compliance to these battery standards during the authorization to use the EFB. These records may be available from the battery’s Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM).

(6) Rechargeable Lithium-Type Battery Maintenance, Storage, and Functional Check. Operators should have documented maintenance procedures for their rechargeable lithium-type batteries. These procedures should meet or exceed the OEM’s recommendations.

These procedures should address battery life, proper storage and handling, and safety. There should be methods to ensure that the rechargeable lithium-type batteries are sufficiently charged at proper intervals and have periodic functional checks to ensure that they do not experience degraded charge retention capability or other damage due to prolonged storage. These procedures should include precautions to prevent mishandling of the battery, which could cause a short circuit or other unintentional exposure or damage that could result in personal injury or