PPL Checkride Guide
← Area IX. Emergency Operations

Task IX.C

Systems and Equipment Malfunctions

To determine the applicant exhibits satisfactory knowledge, risk management, and skills associated with system and equipment malfunctions appropriate to the airplane provided for the practical test.

References: FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM

Knowledge15 elements

The applicant demonstrates understanding of:

  • PA.IX.C.K1Causes of partial or complete power loss related to the specific type of powerplant(s).
  • PA.IX.C.K1aa. [Archived]
  • PA.IX.C.K1bb. [Archived]
  • PA.IX.C.K1cc. [Archived]
  • PA.IX.C.K1dd. [Archived]
  • PA.IX.C.K2System and equipment malfunctions specific to the aircraft, including:
  • PA.IX.C.K2aa. Electrical malfunction
  • PA.IX.C.K2bb. Vacuum/pressure and associated flight instrument malfunctions
  • PA.IX.C.K2cc. Pitot-static system malfunction
  • PA.IX.C.K2dd. Electronic flight deck display malfunction
  • PA.IX.C.K2ee. Landing gear or flap malfunction
  • PA.IX.C.K2ff. Inoperative trim
  • PA.IX.C.K3Causes and remedies for smoke or fire onboard the aircraft.
  • PA.IX.C.K4Any other system specific to the aircraft (e.g., supplemental oxygen, deicing).
  • PA.IX.C.K5Inadvertent door or window opening.
Risk Management4 elements

The applicant is able to identify, assess, and mitigate risk associated with:

  • PA.IX.C.R1Checklist usage for a system or equipment malfunction.
  • PA.IX.C.R2Distractions, task prioritization, loss of situational awareness, or disorientation.
  • PA.IX.C.R3Undesired aircraft state.
  • PA.IX.C.R4Startle response.
Skills2 elements

The applicant exhibits the skill to:

  • PA.IX.C.S1Determine appropriate action for simulated emergencies specified by the evaluator, from at least three of the elements or sub-elements listed in K1 through K5.
  • PA.IX.C.S2Complete the appropriate checklist(s).

Overview

Study notes for Systems and Equipment Malfunctions are coming soon. The official ACS elements for this task are listed above — use them as your checklist while the full study guide is being written.

Key Knowledge

Content coming soon.

Common DPE Questions

Content coming soon.

References

FAA-H-8083-2, FAA-H-8083-3, FAA-H-8083-25; POH/AFM