How often must pitot static systems be inspected on an aircraft operating under IFR?

The pitot static system is essential for the accurate functioning of an aircraft's airspeed indicator, altimeter, and vertical speed indicator. Under Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations, it is crucial that this system is regularly inspected to ensure safety and reliability.

The requirement for the inspection of pitot static systems is mandated by regulatory authorities, which stipulate that these inspections must occur at least every 24 months. This timeframe ensures that any issues that may arise within the system are identified and rectified, thereby maintaining the necessary accuracy for flight instruments that rely on air pressure changes and static information.

In contrast, inspections at intervals shorter than 24 months, such as 12 or 18 months, are not required by regulations, while a 36-month interval exceeds the acceptable timeframe for ensuring flight safety concerning the pitot static system. Regular, timely inspections are vital, and the established 24-month interval reflects a balanced approach to maintaining aircraft instrumentation while considering operational demands.