Flight Instruments Technician Course

Lesson 1 • Instrument Classification and Categories

Defines pitot-static, gyroscopic, magnetic, and electronic instrument families. Provides the taxonomy used throughout the course.

Lesson 2 • History and Role of Flight Instruments

Traces the evolution of cockpit instrumentation from early aviation to modern glass cockpits. Establishes context for why accuracy and reliability are critical.

Lesson 3 • Basic Physics for Technicians

Reviews pressure, fluid dynamics, gyroscopic precession, and magnetism as they apply to instrument operation. Connects physics principles to practical maintenance tasks.

Lesson 1 • Vertical Speed Indicator Function

Explains the calibrated leak and capsule arrangement that produces rate-of-climb indication. Distinguishes standard VSI from instantaneous VSI designs.

Lesson 2 • Airspeed Indicator Operation

Explains the differential pressure capsule mechanism that drives airspeed indication. Covers indicated, calibrated, equivalent, and true airspeed concepts.

Lesson 3 • Pitot-Static System Errors and Limitations

Identifies position error, instrument error, and blockage effects on system accuracy. Prepares students to diagnose system-wide versus instrument-specific faults.

Lesson 4 • Pitot-Static System Architecture

Describes the complete pitot-static plumbing network from probes to instruments. Establishes system layout knowledge required for fault isolation.

Lesson 1 • Gyro Power Sources and Vacuum Systems

Covers engine-driven vacuum pumps, venturi tubes, and electric gyro power supplies. Explains how power source failures affect multiple gyroscopic instruments simultaneously.

Lesson 2 • Gyroscope Fundamentals

Reviews rigidity in space and precession as the physical basis for gyroscopic instruments. Connects theory to instrument behavior during maneuvers.

Lesson 3 • Attitude Indicator Construction and Operation

Details the gimbal arrangement, erection system, and display mechanism of the artificial horizon. Covers limitations during unusual attitudes and prolonged maneuvers.

Lesson 4 • Turn Coordinator and Turn-and-Slip Indicator

Compares the rate gyro in the turn coordinator with the older turn-and-slip design. Explains inclinometer ball function and coordination indications.

Lesson 1 • Compass Errors and Limitations

Identifies variation, deviation, magnetic dip, oscillation, and acceleration errors. Explains how each error affects heading accuracy in different flight phases.

Lesson 2 • Remote Compass and Flux Valve Systems

Explains flux valve sensing, signal transmission, and amplifier-driven slaving to gyro heading systems. Covers alignment and calibration of remote compass installations.

Lesson 3 • Compass Swing Procedure

Details the step-by-step compass swing process to minimize deviation on all headings. Connects proper swing technique to airworthiness documentation requirements.

Lesson 1 • Air Data Computers and Sensors

Covers ADC input sensors, computation algorithms, and output data formats. Explains how ADC failures affect multiple downstream displays simultaneously.

Lesson 2 • Display Technologies and Symbology

Compares CRT, active-matrix LCD, and OLED display technologies used in cockpit applications. Covers standard symbology sets and display brightness management.

Lesson 3 • Data Bus Systems and Integration

Introduces ARINC 429, ARINC 629, and MIL-STD-1553 data bus protocols used in avionics integration. Explains bus loading, fault detection, and signal monitoring techniques.

Lesson 4 • EFIS Architecture Overview

Describes the primary flight display, multi-function display, and symbol generator relationships. Establishes the system-level view needed for fault isolation.

Lesson 1 • Overhaul Procedures and Reassembly

Guides students through complete disassembly, parts replacement, reassembly, and final functional test sequences. Emphasizes cleanliness and sequence adherence.

Lesson 2 • Cleaning, Lubrication, and Parts Inspection

Specifies approved solvents, lubricants, and inspection criteria for instrument components. Prevents contamination-related failures through proper handling techniques.

Lesson 3 • Maintenance Documentation and Standards

Identifies approved data sources, maintenance manuals, and airworthiness directives governing instrument work. Establishes the documentation framework for all maintenance tasks.

Lesson 4 • Instrument Removal and Installation

Details panel removal techniques, connector handling, and torque requirements for instrument installation. Covers shock mount inspection and bonding strap continuity checks.

Lesson 1 • Pitot-Static Leak Test Procedures

Details the step-by-step static system leak test using calibrated test sets. Covers acceptable leak rates and corrective actions for failed tests.

Lesson 2 • Transponder and Altitude Reporting Tests

Explains Mode C and Mode S altitude reporting verification using ramp test equipment. Connects transponder output accuracy to air traffic control separation safety.

Lesson 3 • Regulatory Testing Requirements

Explains the regulatory intervals, scope, and documentation requirements for pitot-static and transponder certification tests. Establishes the compliance framework for all testing tasks.

Lesson 4 • Altimeter Accuracy and Encoding Tests

Covers the altitude accuracy check points, scale error limits, and hysteresis tests for sensitive altimeters. Includes encoding altimeter output verification against test set readings.

Lesson 1 • Wiring Diagrams and Schematic Interpretation

Develops skills in reading avionics wiring diagrams, connector pin-out charts, and signal flow schematics. Applies schematic reading directly to instrument circuit tracing.

Lesson 2 • Built-In Test and Self-Test Functions

Explains BITE architecture, self-test initiation, and fault code interpretation in modern avionics. Covers limitations of BITE and when manual testing is still required.

Lesson 3 • Multi-System Integration Fault Scenarios

Presents complex fault scenarios involving simultaneous failures across pitot-static, gyro, and EFIS systems. Develops advanced diagnostic reasoning through case-based practice.

Lesson 4 • Intermittent Fault Diagnosis

Addresses the unique challenges of diagnosing faults that do not appear consistently during testing. Covers vibration, thermal, and connector-related intermittent failure causes.