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Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR

CASA Ref: CASR Part 61 MOS Schedule 3 CNAV / CHFC · FAA Ref: FAA-S-ACS-6C Area VI Task A (VFR Navigation)

Scenario & Physics Summary

Immediate transition to standby mechanical instruments, paper/tablet backup, VOR/NDB raw data, and pilotage at night.

Interactive 3D Visual Plates & Scenario Media

Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR Plate 1

Plate 1: Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR

Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR Plate 2

Plate 2: Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR

Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR Plate 3

Plate 3: Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR

Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR Plate 4

Plate 4: Avionics / MFD Display Failure in Night VFR

Aerodynamic & Operational Physics

Glass cockpit Primary Flight Display (PFD) or MFD screen blackouts remove artificial horizon, moving map, and digital engine gauges simultaneously.
Relying solely on GPS without maintaining paper chart log or VOR raw fixes creates spatial disorientation when screens fail.
Maintain attitude using standby attitude indicator/turn coordinator, scan outside visual cues (ground light clusters), maintain altitude, notify ATC.

CASA & FAA Exam Gotcha Alert

CASA Exam Trap: Night VFR regulations require candidates to maintain dead reckoning logs regardless of GPS installation status.

Frequently Asked Questions & Exam Explanations

What is the primary risk when GPS screens go dark at night?

Pilot spatial disorientation due to sudden loss of visual horizon and situational awareness.

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Drill targeted CASA and FAA exam questions with step-by-step mathematical decoders and regulatory clause links.

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