Electronic Flight Bags—Legal Briefing

For nearly all general aviation IFR flights under Part 91, yes. Your iPad can replace paper charts.

For instrument-rated pilots, an iPad or other electronic flight bag (EFB) isn’t just a convenience—it’s a fully legal replacement for paper charts in most Part 91 operations. Staying current with the FAA’s rules and guidance is an important part of maintaining IFR proficiency, and understanding the legal framework helps you use your digital tools confidently.

Many pilots still ask, “Is my iPad legal for IFR use?” The short answer: for nearly all general aviation IFR flights under Part 91, yes. Your iPad can replace paper charts, approach plates, and many traditional cockpit reference materials—if used properly. Here’s a closer look at the applicable regulations and guidance:

• FAR 91.21—Portable Electronic Devices: This regulation primarily applies to commercial carriers and IFR operations, but its guidance is relevant to all pilots. The pilot in command is responsible for ensuring that any device, including an iPad, won’t interfere with navigation or communication systems. For Part 91 GA, this is a straightforward determination you make as PIC.

• AC 91-78A—Use of Electronic Flight Bags: The key advisory for Part 91 operators, covering VFR and IFR flights. EFBs may replace paper materials in all phases of flight, as long as the data is current, the device is properly secured, and it is functionally equivalent to the paper chart it replaces. This AC confirms that IFR pilots may rely on EFBs for enroute charts, approach procedures, airport diagrams, and performance data.

• AC 91-92—Pilot’s Guide to a Preflight Briefing: Offers guidance for self-briefings using an EFB. Pilots do not need to contact Flight Service to be compliant—the FAA considers a thorough self-briefing with digital tools to meet regulatory requirements. This is particularly helpful for IFR pilots planning routes, checking NOTAMs, and reviewing weather along multiple waypoints.

• AC 120-76D—Guidelines for Certification and Use of EFBs: While aimed at commercial operations, it contains practical recommendations for GA pilots. It defines Type A and Type B applications—Type B apps include flight planning, electronic charts, checklists, and performance calculators. It also provides guidance on battery management, stowage, and interference testing, which is particularly important for IFR flights where redundancy and reliability are critical.

Practical IFR tips for EFB use:

1. Always verify data currency: Ensure your approach plates, enroute charts, and weather data are up to date before departure.

2. Secure your device: Proper stowage prevents distractions or damage during takeoff, turbulence, and landing.

3. Use geo-referencing responsibly: Overlaying your position on an EFB is permitted, but always cross-check with your PFD or installed navigation systems.

4. Plan for contingencies: Have a backup method for critical information—either a second EFB, a printed approach plate, or an installed avionics display.

So is it legal?

Yes, your iPad is absolutely a legal, reliable, and ready to replace paper charts in your cockpit—but you are ultimately responsible as PIC to ensure it works safely and does not interfere with the aircraft. Consider testing your EFB in controlled conditions, such as a VFR flight or with a safety pilot, before relying on it in IFR conditions.

For a visual summary of the rules and best practices, check out our IFR EFB flow chart:

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Bret Koebbe

As Sporty’s lead aviation course and video producer, Bret is usually flying an interesting airplane, and often with a camera rolling. He oversees the development, production and distribution of over 30 aviation courses from Sporty's, including the Private Pilot Learn to Fly Course. He is a flight instructor and check airman at the Sporty's Academy flight school and a senior captain on a Cessna Citation.

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