Electronic Flight Bags (EFBs) have completely changes the way pilots access and manage important flight information. Rather than heaving around on heavy paper charts, manuals, checklists, and performance documents, pilots can now replace the old ways with an EFB, which allows them to digitally organize large amounts of information in one convenient system.
But what exactly is an Electronic Flight Bag? How does it work? And why is it such an important part of aviation? In this article, we’ll dive into all of this.
What Is an Electronic Flight Bag?
An Electronic Flight Bag is a system used by pilots to get information and conduct several of flight-related tasks. An EFB is often a portable device, like a tablet, or it can be a system that has been installed and integrated into an aircraft.
Depending on the aircraft and operation, an EFB may provide:
- Digital aeronautical charts
- Airport and navigation information
- Operating manuals
- Electronic checklists
- Weather data
- Weight and balance calculations
- Takeoff and landing calculations
- Fuel planning
- Flight planning
EFBs gather these resources together digitally, making crucial information easier to access, organize, and update.
How Do Electronic Flight Bags Work?
EFBs generally run on aviation-specific software and applications to provide information and perform calculations. Pilots can access them prior to departure for flight planning and in-flight to reference charts, procedures, and other information.
The specific parameters of an EFB depend on the device, the software, the aircraft, and the operator. Certain systems are used mostly to display information, while others offer more advanced features like performance calculations and navigation-related functions.
Are EFBags FAA-Approved?
The short answer: It can vary depending on the type of operation and the functions being performed.
In the US, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides guidance and applicable operating regulations on the use of EFBs. For a deep dive, check the Authorization for Use of Electronic Flight Bags here: FAA Advisory Circular AC 120-76E.
An EFB is not just a tablet with an aviation app installed. Operators must keep in mind potential issues like software and data currency, procedures, training, reliability, and authorization.
Are EFBs Important?
Well, consider one of the biggest advantages of an EFBs: its efficiency. Digitized data is often easier to organize and access than huge reams of paper documents.
EFBs are also helpful with:
- Reducing the amount of paper used and brought onboard
- Accessing current digital information
- Performing relevant calculations
- Organizing documents
- Streamlining planning
- Reducing search time
The Future of Electronic Flight Bags
As aviation continues to adopt digital technology, EFBs are becoming an increasingly important tool in modern flight operations. Their capabilities continue to expand as aircraft operators adopt new software, applications, and digital workflows.
However, technology does not replace good aviation procedures. Pilots and operators must still ensure that required information is current, available, and used in accordance with applicable regulations and company procedures.
Final Thoughts
An Electronic Flight Bag isn’t just a digital replacement for the paper flight bags of yesteryear. It is a technology platform that offers easy access to charts, manuals, checklists, weather data, performance calculations, and other flight-specific aspects. For pilots and aviation operators, EFBs can mean better organization and keener efficiency when it comes to managing information.