Identifying And Handling Suspected Pitot And/Or Static System Failures - Aspen Avionics Evolution Backup Display EFD1000 Pilot's Manual

6.1.1. Identifying and Handling Suspected Pitot and/or
Static System Failures
Blocked pitot and/or static system ports will compromise the EBD's attitude solution
and soon cause it to Red-X (fail). Immediately begin flying by reference to backup
attitude sources. Therefore, the pilot must be especially vigilant about verifying proper
operation of the pitot and static systems both before and during flight.
It is important to check the pitot tube and static system ports, and to verify pitot heater
performance, as part of a thorough pre-flight inspection, especially when anticipating
flight in low IMC.
On takeoff roll, it is good practice to note and call out "airspeeds alive" when the
airspeed indicators (both primary and backup) begin moving and to compare and call
out readings at a pre-determined airspeed close to, but before rotation speed (e.g.
"60 knots cross check"), consciously noting the performance on each takeoff. If the
airspeed indicators do not come "alive" when they usually do or whenever there is a
significant difference between the primary and backup indicators and sufficient runway
is remaining, aborting the takeoff may be a prudent decision. Follow the Flight Manual
procedures for your aircraft.
When the static port is blocked on takeoff, it is imperative to quickly recognize the
condition. Sometimes the airspeed indicator will show substantially less than normal
and the airspeed will reduce in the climb. The natural—but incorrect—response is to
lower the nose. In this situation, maintaining proper pitch attitude to climb is vital. The
airspeed will continue to reduce as you climb, and at about 1,000 feet AGL the EBD
attitude and heading indications will be Red-X due to the reduced airspeed indication.
As soon as you suspect a blocked static port, try switching to an alternate static source.
Know the location of the alternate static air control in your airplane and learn how it
works.
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Evolution Backup Display Pilot's Guide 091-00027-001 REV A
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