Regulatory Guidance on EFB & PED Use

AC 91-78, Use of Electronic Flight Bags
This AC provides operators with guidance on the use of EFBs in place of traditional paper reference materials. It outlines acceptable types of EFB applications (Type A and Type B), discusses backup requirements, and emphasizes that devices must not interfere with aircraft systems. The circular is aimed primarily at Part 91 operators but has industry-wide implications as it sets baseline expectations for EFB use during flight.

AC 91.21-1, Use of Portable Electronic Devices Aboard Aircraft
Provides the FAA’s official position on the use of portable electronic devices (PEDs) on board aircraft. It reinforces the requirement that operators must determine whether PEDs will interfere with aircraft navigation or communication systems. The AC also offers procedures and best practices for conducting interference testing and outlines which devices may be used safely during different phases of flight.

AC 120-76E, Authorization for Use of Electronic Flight Bags
AC 120-76E is the FAA’s authoritative guidance on obtaining and maintaining operational approval to use EFBs in commercial operations. It specifies the requirements for hardware, software, data integrity, backup methods, and crew training. This AC provides the framework that Parts 121, 125, and 135 operators must follow when transitioning from paper to digital flight bag solutions.

InFO 13010, Expanding Use of Passenger PEDs
This InFO (Information for Operators) explains how airlines can permit passengers to use PEDs during all phases of flight, including taxi, takeoff, and landing. It outlines the safety assessments and risk mitigations required before expanding PED use, such as electromagnetic interference testing and operational procedures. The document reflects the FAA’s recognition of technological advancements in PED design and airline connectivity systems.

InFO 13010 SUP, Expanding Use of Passenger PEDs (Supplement)
This supplement to InFO 13010 provides additional context and clarification for operators implementing expanded PED policies. It focuses on compliance issues, passenger announcements, and coordination with flight attendants to ensure a smooth transition. The document also addresses concerns over operator accountability for verifying device safety and provides support for internal safety management system (SMS) integration.

14 CFR 91.21 – Portable electronic devices
This regulation empowers aircraft operators to determine whether portable electronic devices may be safely used in flight. It explicitly prohibits PED use unless the operator or pilot-in-command determines they will not interfere with aircraft systems. The rule provides the legal foundation for both AC 91.21-1 and operator policies regarding passenger and crew PED usage.

14 CFR 135.144 – Portable electronic devices
14 CFR 135.144 mirrors 91.21 but applies specifically to commuter and on-demand operations under Part 135. It prohibits the operation of PEDs unless approved by the certificate holder or unless the devices are determined not to cause harmful interference. This regulation is critical for charter and air ambulance operators that rely on PEDs, including EFBs, in dynamic operating environments.

Certification & Installation Standards

AC 20-173, Installation of Electronic Flight Bag Components
This AC provides detailed FAA guidance on the installation of EFB components, particularly Class 2 and Class 3 devices that may be mounted in the cockpit or connected to aircraft power. It outlines acceptable methods for physical attachment, electrical interface, and environmental qualification. The document is essential for maintenance providers and operators seeking installation approval without requiring full equipment certification under TSO or STC.

AC 20-140, Guidelines for Design Approval of Aircraft Data Link Communication Systems Supporting Air Traffic Services (ATS)
This AC explains how to obtain FAA design approval for aircraft data link communication systems that support ATS functions such as CPDLC. It includes guidance on performance requirements, interoperability with ATC infrastructure, and system reliability. Operators implementing connected EFBs that transmit or receive operational data should understand the certification interface between EFBs and ATS-capable systems.

AC 20-164, Designing and Demonstrating Aircraft Tolerance to Portable Electronic Devices
AC 20-164 provides a roadmap for determining whether aircraft systems are sufficiently tolerant of electromagnetic emissions from PEDs, including EFBs. The guidance includes test protocols, configuration assessments, and documentation standards for proving compliance. This document is key to demonstrating airworthiness when approving expanded PED use in all phases of flight.

AC 25.773-1, Pilot Compartment View Design Considerations
This AC outlines certification requirements for cockpit visibility, especially in transport category aircraft. It ensures that any installations, such as EFB mounting brackets or displays, do not obstruct the pilot’s field of view under normal or emergency conditions. The guidance is highly relevant when integrating fixed or semi-fixed EFB installations into the flight deck.

AC 29-2, MG16 – NVIS Lighting Systems Certification for Rotorcraft
This section of AC 29-2 covers the certification of night vision imaging system (NVIS)-compatible aircraft lighting in rotorcraft. It includes requirements for cockpit lighting compatibility with NVGs and sets standards for evaluating reflectivity, display brightness, and system integration. This is especially critical for air medical helicopters that often operate in low-light environments and may use EFBs in conjunction with NVIS.

14 CFR Part 23 – Airworthiness Standards: Normal Category Airplanes
Part 23 provides the design and certification standards for normal category airplanes, including safety systems, flight displays, and avionics interfaces. For EFB integration, compliance with environmental and systems compatibility standards is required. EFB-related installations in light aircraft often use Part 23 as the regulatory foundation.

14 CFR Part 25 – Airworthiness Standards: Transport Category Airplanes
Part 25 governs the design and performance criteria for large transport aircraft. This regulation directly impacts the certification of EFB mounting, wiring, and system integration in commercial jets. Operators and manufacturers must ensure that any EFB hardware or supporting infrastructure does not compromise the aircraft’s compliance with Part 25.

14 CFR Part 29 – Airworthiness Standards: Transport Category Rotorcraft
This part defines the certification standards for large rotorcraft, including structural integrity, cockpit design, and systems operation. For operators installing or authorizing EFB use in rotorcraft, especially those used in air medical or utility roles, Part 29 sets the baseline for ensuring operational safety and regulatory compliance.

14 CFR 43.3 – Persons Authorized to Perform Maintenance
14 CFR §43.3 defines who is legally authorized to perform maintenance, preventive maintenance, rebuilding, or alterations on U.S.-registered aircraft. This regulation is especially important when modifying aircraft to support EFB installations, such as installing mounts or power ports. Maintenance performed by unauthorized personnel could void airworthiness or introduce regulatory liability.

Operational Procedures & Evaluation

AC 120-64, Operational Use and Modification of Electronic Checklists
This AC outlines the FAA’s guidance for implementing electronic checklists in lieu of traditional paper-based systems. It addresses operational use, revision procedures, failure modes, and how electronic checklists must be incorporated into the operator’s manual. The document emphasizes safety through standardization, ensuring pilots can rely on checklist functionality during all phases of flight.

AC 120-71, Standard Operating Procedures and Pilot Monitoring Duties for Flight Deck Crewmembers
AC 120-71 details the FAA’s expectations for Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and crew monitoring duties during flight operations. It promotes flight deck discipline, structured decision-making, and role clarity, which are critical when integrating new tools like EFBs. Operators implementing EFBs must ensure that associated tasks—such as referencing charts or calculating performance—fit within their SOP framework.

AC 120-74, Flightcrew Procedures During Taxi Operations
This circular provides guidance on best practices for flightcrew behavior during taxi operations, focusing on communication, heads-up procedures, and situational awareness. It supports safe taxi operations through coordinated roles and use of technology such as EFB moving maps. Operators integrating EFBs must ensure taxi procedures reflect proper use of digital airport diagrams and navigation tools.

FAA Order 8900.1 Vol.4 Ch.15 Sec.1 – EFB Program Evaluation and Authorization
This section of the FAA’s inspector handbook provides comprehensive evaluation criteria for EFB programs under Parts 91K, 121, 125, and 135. It assists Principal Operations Inspectors (POIs) in reviewing an operator’s EFB program for compliance with regulatory guidance and risk management protocols. The guidance ensures consistency in approvals and aligns with AC 120-76E.

FAA Order 8900.1 Vol.4 Ch.15 Sec.2 – EFB Program Checklist
This checklist supplements the evaluation process in Vol.4 Ch.15 Sec.1 by providing POIs with a standardized tool to assess EFB programs. It covers documentation, training, software configuration, and contingency procedures. Operators may also use the checklist proactively to self-audit their EFB programs before applying for FAA approval.

FAA Order 8900.1 Vol.3 Ch.66 Sec.1 – Expanded Use of Passenger PEDs
This section offers guidance on how operators under Parts 91K, 121, 125, and 135 can expand PED use during all phases of flight. It includes risk assessment, procedures for crew announcements, and documentation requirements. The policy reflects FAA support for modernizing cabin operations while maintaining system integrity.

FAA Order 8900.1 Vol.6 Ch.2 Sec.7 – Air Ambulance Aircraft Inspection
This order outlines the FAA’s inspection procedures for aircraft used in air ambulance operations under Parts 121 and 135. It addresses medical equipment, crew coordination, and use of supplemental tools like EFBs for flight planning or patient logistics. Operators conducting HEMS missions must align their procedures with this guidance, especially when integrating cockpit technology.

FAA Order 8900.1 Vol.6 Ch.11 Sec.22 – Conduct Night Vision Imaging System (NVIS) Evaluation
This section instructs FAA inspectors on evaluating the integration and functionality of NVIS systems in aircraft. It includes criteria for compatibility between lighting, displays, and NVG equipment—areas relevant to operators using EFBs in NVIS environments. The guidance supports safe night operations and enforces FAA lighting and visibility requirements.

FAA Order 8900.1 Vol.3 Ch.26 Sec.5 – Use of Flight Information Services (FIS) on the Flight Deck
This section provides operational guidance for using Flight Information Services (FIS), such as weather and NOTAMs, on the flight deck via electronic means. It clarifies regulatory expectations for ensuring data accuracy, timeliness, and integrity. EFB platforms used to access FIS data must meet these criteria to maintain compliance and safety.

EP_5_2_4_135E_OP_V14

Contains checklists, evaluation steps, relevant to EFB authorization in Part 135 operations.

Human Factors & Safety Studies

AC 00-63, Use of Flight Deck Displays of Digital Weather and Aeronautical Information
This AC provides guidance for the use of electronic displays presenting digital weather and aeronautical information on the flight deck. It emphasizes human factors considerations such as screen readability, color usage, update rates, and pilot workload. The goal is to ensure that these displays enhance situational awareness without introducing distractions or confusion, especially when used on EFBs or installed systems.

AC 25-11, Electronic Flight Displays
AC 25-11 addresses design and certification considerations for electronic flight displays in transport category aircraft. It focuses on layout, redundancy, color logic, and the usability of graphical interfaces from a human-machine interface perspective. This document provides the foundation for evaluating EFB integration into aircraft systems where they are used in lieu of or in addition to primary flight instruments.

Chart Leg on PED – Chart Legibility on Portable Electronic Devices
This FAA-funded study examines how clearly flight charts display on various portable electronic devices. It evaluates screen brightness, glare, contrast, and font sizing to determine readability in operational conditions. The findings support industry efforts to ensure that EFB-delivered charts meet or exceed the legibility of paper charts for safe navigation.

Volpe 2015 EFB Industry Survey Final Report
This report summarizes a comprehensive industry survey conducted by the Volpe Center on the use and implementation of Electronic Flight Bags. It captures data from operators, pilots, manufacturers, and regulators on EFB types, software, failure rates, and approval processes. The report informs ongoing policy development and reveals trends in human interaction with EFBs across aviation sectors.

ExamSafRepEFBaPED – An Examination of Safety Reports Involving EFBs and PEDs
This study analyzes safety reports submitted to the FAA and NASA ASRS concerning incidents involving Electronic Flight Bags and Portable Electronic Devices. It identifies common failure modes, such as distraction, loss of situational awareness, and battery issues. Recommendations are made for better crew training, backup procedures, and operational controls to mitigate these risks.

UseEDoAcqRetInfo – Literature Review on EFBs and Information Retention
This literature review explores the cognitive impact of using EFBs and digital information systems in the cockpit. It examines how screen-based interfaces affect a pilot’s ability to acquire, retain, and recall critical flight information compared to traditional methods. The findings help guide the design of EFB applications and inform training strategies to reduce human error.

DesEvalFDDC – Human Factors in the Design and Evaluation of Flight Deck Displays and Controls
This FAA technical report outlines human factors design principles for evaluating flight deck displays and control interfaces. It includes guidance on layout, consistency, input devices, and cognitive workload. The report supports safe and efficient interaction between pilots and electronic systems, particularly as EFBs and integrated avionics become more complex.

DOT/FAA/TC-16/56 – Human Factors Considerations in the Design and Evaluation of Flight Deck Displays
This document is a major FAA-sponsored research report that provides design guidance for cockpit systems based on human factors best practices. It covers visual ergonomics, error prevention, attention management, and task prioritization. This report is highly valuable for manufacturers and operators evaluating how EFBs or other displays integrate into the pilot's overall information environment.

EFB SecSolEnvTR – Viewable Stowage of Portable Electronic Devices in the Flight Deck
This environmental test report evaluates the secure stowage of PEDs in the cockpit to ensure they remain visible and usable under turbulence or other adverse conditions. It addresses shock, vibration, and pilot accessibility, particularly during critical flight phases. This study supports hardware installation decisions and aligns with safety policies regarding stowage and interference mitigation.

Legal Interpretations

Honeycutt-CharterFlight_2013_Legal_Interpretation
This FAA legal interpretation addresses the applicability of operational control regulations and how charter operators must structure their oversight responsibilities, including equipment use like EFBs. The document highlights the importance of the certificate holder maintaining authority over aircraft operations, even when third parties are involved. It clarifies that delegation of operational decisions or technology management, such as EFB data sources, must remain under regulatory control to avoid violations under 14 CFR Part 135.

Sweet_2011_Legal_Interpretation
This interpretation clarifies the FAA’s position on aircraft modifications, particularly when they affect equipment required by regulation or certification, including electronic systems like EFBs. It discusses when a supplemental type certificate (STC), field approval, or FAA Form 337 is necessary based on the permanence and impact of the installation. The document is useful for operators determining whether mounting or integrating an EFB system constitutes a major alteration under 14 CFR Part 43.

Performance Standards (TSOs & Tech Docs)

TSO-C113b – Airborne Multipurpose Electronic Displays
This Technical Standard Order (TSO) defines the minimum performance criteria for airborne multipurpose electronic displays used in the cockpit. It addresses reliability, environmental qualifications, EMI susceptibility, and display readability. EFB displays or integrated systems seeking certification under this TSO must meet these stringent criteria to ensure safe and consistent operation across all flight conditions.

TSO-C165b – Electronic Map Display Equipment for Graphical Depiction of Aircraft Position (Own-Ship)
TSO-C165b provides standards for display systems that graphically represent the aircraft’s position on a map—commonly referred to as "own-ship" position. These systems are often integrated with or supported by EFB applications, particularly for ground operations or situational awareness. Meeting this TSO ensures that graphical depictions meet FAA expectations for accuracy, latency, and integration with navigation sources.

PS-AIR-25-13-R1 – Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) for Aircraft Wireless RF Networks
This policy statement addresses electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) issues related to the installation and operation of wireless radio frequency (RF) networks on board aircraft. It includes considerations for Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and LTE systems, which are often used by EFBs to communicate with onboard systems or download data. Compliance with this policy helps prevent interference with flight-critical systems and supports safe wireless integration.

AC 00-74 – Avionics Human Factors Considerations for Design and Evaluation
AC 00-74 outlines human factors principles that should be incorporated into the design and evaluation of avionics systems, including EFBs. It emphasizes usability, error prevention, attention management, and information accessibility. The circular supports manufacturers and operators in developing EFB interfaces that align with pilot cognition and flight deck ergonomics.

InFO 17020 – Portable In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) Systems
This InFO provides operational and safety guidance for portable In-Flight Entertainment (IFE) systems, which often overlap functionally and physically with EFBs. It addresses concerns about stowage, battery management, interference, and passenger use. The document is useful for operators evaluating whether dual-use EFB/IFE devices comply with FAA expectations.

EFB EMC Chkl Rev 2 – Electronic Flight Bag Electromagnetic Compatibility Checklist
This checklist is designed to help FAA inspectors and operators verify electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) of EFB systems. It includes evaluation of shielding, interference risk, cable routing, and system grounding. The checklist ensures EFB installations meet FAA safety requirements and do not degrade the performance of critical avionics systems.