Task C: Systems and Equipment Malfunctions

Task C: Systems and Equipment Malfunctions (ASEL and ASES)

References: FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM.

Objective: To determine that the applicant:

Private Pilot PTS What this means… What you need to do to prepare
1. Exhibits satisfactory knowledge of the elements related to system and equipment malfunctions appropriate to the airplane provided for the practical test.

The examiner will ask you what the symptoms and troubleshooting steps for systems and equipment malfunctions that are specific to your airplane. You should be intimiately familiar with Chapter 3 – Abnormal Procedures and Chapter 7 – Airplane Systems in your POH/AFM so that you understand the symptoms of equipment malfunctions and the appropriate troubleshooting procedure.

You should also review Chapter 16 – Emergency Procedures in the Airplane Flying Handbook.
2. Analyzes the situation and takes appropriate action for simulated emergencies appropriate to the airplane provided for the practical test for at least three of the following—

  • partial or complete power loss.
  • engine roughness or overheat.
  • carburetor or induction icing.
  • loss of oil pressure.
  • fuel starvation.
  • electrical malfunction.
  • vacuum/pressure, and associated flight instruments malfunction.
  • pitot/static system malfunction.
  • landing gear or flap malfunction.
  • inoperative trim.
  • inadvertent door or window opening.
  • structural icing.
  • smoke/fire/engine compartment fire.
  • any other emergency appropriate to the airplane.

During the oral and flight portion of the exam, the examiner will ask you how you will manage at least three of the malfunctions listed. During the flight portion, the examiner will simulate one or more of the malfunctions listed. You need to read Chapter 3 – Abnormal Procedures in your POH/AFM to become very familiar with the appropriate procedure for these malfunctions. You need to ensure that you will have access to the appropriate checklist during the flight portion of the practical exam.
3. Follows the appropriate checklist or procedure. The examiner will expect you to follow and use the manufacturer’s checklist for any of these malfunctions. While your training checklist includes some of these, the aircraft manufacturer provides more complete guidance in Chapter 3 of the POH/AFM. See recommendation in section 2 above.