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Air Filter
To help avoid spatial disorientation: Redundancy comes in several forms. Options include:
• Install a backup power supply to the pneumatic • Electrically-powered backup attitude and heading
system (see the Redundancy section below) indicators
• Keep the suction gauge in your instrument scan • Air pump redundancy with an electric or engine dri-
• Become and stay proficient at partial panel flying ven pump
• Cover up inoperative instruments during a failure • Standby vacuum system that utilizes the pressure dif-
• Make timed turns instead of using the heading indicator ferential from the engine’s intake manifold
• Notify ATC of the situation and declare an emergency
• If in IMC, consider flying toward the closest VMC Points to Remember
• Check the weather at the nearest airport with a Here are the key points to remember about pneumatic
precision instrument approach system failures:
• Ask ATC for a “no gyro approach” • Pneumatic systems fail. Expect it and be prepared.
• You can lessen the likelihood of a failure by making
Pneumatic system failures can occur at any time, sure the pneumatic system has been properly main-
regardless of the age of the system. Causes include: tained.
• Contamination by solid particles from within the • Consider installing a backup system and a promi-
pneumatic system that can damage the pump and nently placed annunciator.
plug valve openings. • Stay current on instrument scanning techniques and
• Liquid contamination from oil, water, or engine partial panel flying.
cleaning solvents.
• A loose fitting or damaged hose allowing contami- With these points in mind, you can feel more at ease
nants into the system past the filter. the next time you need to rely on your pneumatic
• Worn out, misused, or incorrectly routed hoses. powered flight instruments and systems.
This Safety Brief was produced with the generous assistance of Parker Hannifin Corporation.