I've often questioned the fit on a/c and if the a/c is airworthy without certain bits of kit...for example I learnt on 150s...the checklist says to check the vacuum pump is 4-5 inches I think...however when the guage is knackered.. I had one instructor say to me...oh its just the guage that's broke...don't worry about it...you'll be fine - off you go.
As it happens it all was fine, but now I've passed I'm quite selective and if bits are broken and haven't been fixed I won't take it - afterall, if I know they're that tight when it comes to maintenance, how do I know they won't have cut a few corners in an attempt to save a few £££
Having said all that, if the worst happens..and you did get lost...and you spoke to 121.5 and they saved the day...would you then like to explain to the CAA afterwards why you went XC with an inop compass?
