U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Aviation Administration Advisory Circular Subject: Currency Requirements and Guidance for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check Date: 4/30/12 Initiated by: AFS-800 AC No: 61-98B Change:
FOREWORD This advisory circular (AC) provides information for certificated pilots and flight instructors to use in complying with the flight review required by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61, § 61.56 and the recent flight experience requirements of § 61.57. This AC is particularly directed to General Aviation (GA) pilots holding sport or higher grades of pilot certificates who wish to maintain currency and to certificated flight instructors (CFI) who give flight instruction to support such activities. This AC does not apply to training programs or proficiency checks conducted pursuant to 14 CFR part 121 or 135, nor to curriculums approved pursuant to 14 CFR part 142.
ORIGINAL SIGNED BY /s/ John S. Duncan for
John M. Allen Director, Flight Standards Service
Page iii (and iv)
CONTENTS Paragraph Page CHAPTER 1. GENERAL
1-1. Purpose1
1-2. Cancellation1
1-3. Related CFR Sections1
1-4 Focus1
1-5. Related Reading Materials1
1-6. Background1
1-7. Personal Currency Program2
CHAPTER 2. RECENT FLIGHT EXPERIENCE
2-1. Recent General Experience5
2-2. Recent Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Experience6
CHAPTER 3. FLIGHT REVIEW
3-1. Structure and the Intent of the Flight Review7
3-2. Pre-Review Considerations7
3-3. Planning and Recording the Review9
3-4. Post-Review Considerations11
CHAPTER 4. INSTRUMENT PROFICIENCY CHECK
4-1. Structuring and Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC)13
4-2. IPC – Knowledge Portion14
4-3. IPC – Skill Portion15
4-4. Post-IPC Considerations and Recordkeeping15
APPENDIX 1. SAMPLE CERTIFICATED FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR’S FLIGHT
REVIEW CHECKLIST (1 page)1
APPENDIX 2. REGULATORY REVIEW GUIDE (2 pages)1
APPENDIX 3. SAMPLE PILOT’S PERSONAL AERONAUTICAL GOALS (1 page)1
APPENDIX 4. SAMPLE AIRPLANE PILOT’S PROFICIENCY PRACTICE PLAN
(1 page)1
APPENDIX 5. SAMPLE FLIGHT REVIEW CHECKLIST (2 pages)1
APPENDIX 6. SAMPLE PILOT’S INSTRUMENT EXPERIENCE SUMMARY (1 page)..1 APPENDIX 7. SAMPLE INSTRUMENT TRAINING AND PROFICIENCY PLAN
(1 page)1
APPENDIX 8. SAMPLE CERTIFICATED FLIGHT INSTRUCTOR’S INSTRUMENT
PROFICIENCY CHECK CHECKLIST (2 pages)1
APPENDIX 9. RESOURCES (1 page)1
Par 1-1 Page 1 CHAPTER 1. GENERAL
1-1. PURPOSE. This advisory circular (AC) provides information for certificated pilots and flight instructors to use in complying with the flight review required by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61, § 61.56 and the recent flight experience requirements of § 61.57.
1-2. CANCELLATION. This AC cancels AC 61-98A, Currency and Additional Qualification Requirements for Certificated Pilots, current edition. You can now find information on transition training in the current edition of FAA-H-8083-3, Airplane Flying Handbook.
1-3. RELATED CFR SECTIONS:
• Section 61.189, Flight instructor records.
• Section 61.193, Flight instructor privileges.
• Section 61.195, Flight instructor limitations and qualifications.
• Section 61.413, What are the privileges of my flight instructor certificate with a sport pilot rating?
• Section 61.415, What are the limits of a flight instructor certificate with a sport pilot rating?
1-4. FOCUS. This AC is for General Aviation (GA) pilots holding sport or higher grades of pilot certificates who wish to maintain currency and to certificated flight instructors (CFI) who give flight instruction to support such activities.
1-5. RELATED READING MATERIALS. You should discuss the practical test standards (PTS) document(s) appropriate to the certificates and ratings held by the pilot seeking a flight review during or prior to the review. You can find additional information regarding original pilot certification and addition of category, class, and type ratings in AC 61-65, Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors, current edition. AC 61-107, Operations of Aircraft at Altitudes Above 25,000 Feet MSL and/or Mach Numbers (Mmo) Greater than .75, current edition, provides information on operation of high altitude aircraft. Guidance on advanced training criteria that is available in AC 61-89, Pilot Certificates: Aircraft Type Ratings, current addition, may also be appropriate. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), commercial sources, and industry associations such as the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), the General Aviation Manufacturer’s Association (GAMA), and the Society of Aviation and Flight Educators (SAFE) make many additional sources of media on pilot currency and qualification available.
1-6. BACKGROUND.
a. Regulatory Review. In 1997, the FAA initiated a major regulatory review and update of 14 CFR parts 61 and 141to ensure that these regulations conformed to the then-current technological and operational environment and to address future pilot certification needs. That was the last major review of those regulations.
Page 2 Par 1-6
(1) The initial phases of the regulatory review addressed regulations requiring priority action by the FAA as a result of National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) recommendations and other factors. These recommendations addressed requirements such as the flight review required by § 61.56.
Par 1-7 Page 3 (and 4)
(2) That AC provided additional information for pilots and flight instructors to use in accomplishing flight reviews, but did not address specific maneuvers and procedures, which pilots should consider for various categories and classes of aircraft. Many comments cited a need for additional FAA guidance material regarding pilot certification and currency that would enable the GA public to comply with present currency regulations and to tailor currency programs to individual pilot needs. The comments also cited a need for increased uniformity in the conduct of currency programs.
b. Previous Edition of AC 61-98. In 1987, the FAA issued AC 61-98, Scope and Content of the Biennial Flight Review. That AC provided additional information for pilots and flight instructors to use in accomplishing flight reviews, but did not address specific maneuvers and procedures, which should be considered for various categories and classes of aircraft. In addition, the original intention of AC 61-98 was not to cover other currency regulations or transition training requirements for pilots who had already received certification. The material previously contained in AC 61-98 is available in Chapter 2.
c. GA Pilots. As a result of initiatives designed to encourage voluntary compliance with existing regulations and to maintain and further improve the GA safety record with a minimum of new regulations, the FAA has determined that updated advisory guidance is necessary with respect to the currency and qualification needs of GA pilots. The guidance contained in this version of AC 61-98 provides such information and accomplishes the goals of the flight review and other currency requirements.
1-7. PERSONAL CURRENCY PROGRAM.
a. Currency Criteria. Pilots should design a currency program tailored to their individual operating environments and needs. In some cases, pilots may integrate currency criteria with normal operations to reduce the need for separate currency flights. For example, pilots could incorporate additional takeoffs and landings or specialized takeoffs and landings (such as short or soft field) into a previously-scheduled flight. In most cases, pilots should consider the need for currency beyond that specified by the 14 CFR.
b. FAA Safety Team (FAASTeam). The FAA highly encourages pilots to participate in the FAASTeam’s Pilot Proficiency Program (WINGS), which includes numerous forms of training media such as online programs and recommended topics for pilots to review with CFIs.
Additionally the FAASTeam conducts safety seminars which are open to the public.
c. Aviation Publications and Commercially-Developed Materials. Pilots should also explore the wide range of publications and other commercially-developed materials available for use in personal currency programs. To ensure staying up to date in regulatory changes and flying techniques, the FAA also encourages pilots to regularly read aviation periodicals.
d. Sources for Developing a Personal Currency Program. For assistance in developing a personal currency program, pilots may consult a wide variety of sources. These sources include:
• Pilot examiners,
Page 4 Par 1-6
• Pilot schools,
• Individual CFIs,
• FAASTeam Program Managers, and
• FAASTeam representatives.
NOTE: For information on local sources, pilots should contact the FAASTeam Program Manager at the nearest FAA Flight Standards District Office (FSDO).
Par 2-1 Page 5 CHAPTER 2. RECENT FLIGHT EXPERIENCE
2-1. RECENT GENERAL EXPERIENCE. Section 61.57(a) and (b) specifies the minimum requirements for recent flight experience, specifically takeoffs and landings, in each category and class of aircraft in order to act as pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft carrying passengers.
a. Requirements Specified in § 61.57(a) and (b). Pilots should regard these requirements as minimums that should be modified to address factors such as overall pilot experience, different operating environments, complexity of the facilities used, and variations in makes and models of aircraft within specific categories and classes. For example, a pilot may meet recent flight experience in a given make and model of aircraft but may have operated only in light or moderate wind conditions from airports with long runways. The pilot should consider acquiring additional takeoff and landing experience in stronger wind conditions or at airports with short runways before acting as PIC of an aircraft carrying passengers in similar conditions. Under some circumstances, the change in the customary operating environment may be great enough that the pilot should seek flight instruction or refresher training before attempting solo operations.
b. Basic Currency and Recent Flight Experience. There are many excellent sources of information available to pilots who wish to enhance currency under a variety of conditions. The FAA recommends that all pilots participate in WINGS, which provides online courses, seminars, and guided flight training; and take advantage of free online safety courses such as those offered by the AOPA Air Safety Foundation.
c. Night Currency Requirements. Night currency requirements deserve additional consideration. The night experience of most pilots represents only a small portion of their total flight experience. The impact of marginal weather conditions on night operations is so significant that pilots should evaluate their own need for both increased currency and additional planning when contemplating flights under unfavorable conditions at night.
d. Obtaining Currency for each Make and Model. Special considerations apply when pilots operate aircraft makes and models they do not customarily fly. Analysis of accident data has shown that accident rates increase for pilots with little or no time-in-type in the aircraft flown. Section 61.31(e) specifies additional experience requirements for operating high performance aircraft. For non-high performance small aircraft, basic currency requirements of § 61.57(a) and (b) apply only to category and class. For example, a pilot who meets the requirement in a Cessna 152 would also meet the requirement in a Cessna 172. However, the FAA recommends that pilots attain currency in each separate make and model before conducting passenger-carrying operations. This currency should include familiarity with the pilot’s operating handbook (POH), the Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM), and/or any other available information on that aircraft. The FAA recommends that all pilots obtain a comprehensive checkout in each make and model aircraft from an appropriately-rated CFI. Airmen are encouraged to search for aircraft ‘clubs’ for information and familiarization on specific makes and models.
NOTE: Considerations regarding basic currency apply not only to single-engine land airplanes but to other categories and classes of aircraft,
Page 6 Par 2-2 including multiengine aircraft, seaplanes, gliders, helicopters, gyroplanes, and free balloons.
2-2. RECENT INSTRUMENT FLIGHT RULES (IFR) EXPERIENCE. In accordance with § 61.57, pilots may complete the six required approaches and holding procedures, intercepting and tracking (all aircraft except gliders) in a ground trainer, level 3-or-below flight training device (FTD), or Aviation Training Device (ATD) that meets the requirements of § 61.4 (refer to the current edition of AC 61-136, FAA Approval of Basic Aviation Devices (BATD) and Advanced Aviation Training Devices (AATD)).
NOTE: In order to receive flight training credit in FTDs qualified by the National Simulator Program Manager (NSPM) at levels 4 or above, or full flight simulators, such devices must be used pursuant to a curriculum approved under 14 CFR part 121, 135, or 142.
Par 3-1 Page 7 CHAPTER 3. FLIGHT REVIEW
3-1. STRUCTURE AND INTENT OF THE FLIGHT REVIEW. With the increasing complexity of the aviation operating environment, CFIs may want more specific guidance on how to structure and plan a flight review and develop contents that are specific to the needs of the pilot under review. The intention of the flight review is to be an industry-managed, FAA-monitored currency program. The CFI must be aware that the flight review is not a test or check ride, but an instructional service designed to assess and enhance a pilot’s knowledge and skills.
a. Accomplishing a Flight Review. Under § 61.56(c) no person may act as PIC of an aircraft unless within the preceding 24 calendar-months that person has accomplished a satisfactory flight review in an aircraft for which that pilot is appropriately rated. An appropriately-rated instructor or other designated person must conduct the flight review. The purpose of the flight review is to provide for a regular evaluation of pilot skills and aeronautical knowledge.
b. Completing WINGS (one or more phases). The FAA reminds pilots and CFIs that, under § 61.56(e), a person who has satisfactorily completed one or more phases of the FAA-sponsored WINGS within the preceding 24 calendar-months does not need to accomplish the flight review requirements of this section. AC 61-91, WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program, current edition, describes how CFIs should encourage pilots to participate in WINGS.
c. Completing Proficiency Checks and Ratings. Pilots and CFIs should be aware that, under § 61.56(d), there is no requirement for pilots who have completed certain proficiency checks and ratings within the preceding 24 calendar-months to accomplish a separate flight review. These accomplishments include satisfactory completion of pilot proficiency checks conducted by the FAA, an approved pilot check airman, a Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE), or a U.S. Armed Force for a pilot certificate, rating, or operating privilege. However, the FAA recommends that pilots consider also accomplishing a review under some of the following circumstances. For example, a pilot with an Airplane Single-Engine Land (ASEL) rating may have recently obtained a glider rating, but may still wish to consider obtaining a flight review in a single-engine airplane if the appropriate 24-month period has nearly expired. When approached by pilots seeking advice on such matters, CFIs should consider the factors described in the following paragraphs.
3-2. PRE-REVIEW CONSIDERATIONS. Before undertaking the review, the CFI should interview the pilot to determine the nature of his or her flying and operating requirements.
Elements to consider should include, but not be limited to, the following areas:
a. Type of Equipment Flown.
(1) Section 61.56(c)(1) states that to act as a PIC, a pilot must accomplish a flight review in an aircraft for which that pilot is rated. A pilot might hold multiple ratings. In such case, the pilot may take a flight review in any one of the aircraft for which he or she holds a rating or operating privilege and they will have met the regulatory requirement for all aircraft for which they hold a certificate and or rating. For example, a pilot who holds a private pilot
Page 8 Par 3-2 certificate with an ASEL rating and a commercial balloon certificate may take a flight review in either aircraft and will have met the requirements of the rule for both. However, a pilot may not take a flight review in an aircraft for which he or she does not hold a rating or operating privilege. For example, that same ASEL rated pilot may not take a flight review in a Multiengine Land (MEL) airplane if he or she does not hold an MEL airplane rating. A pilot who holds only a sport pilot certificate may only take a flight review in a light sport aircraft for which he or she holds an operational privilege. For example, a sport pilot who holds airplane privileges could not take the flight review in a Cessna 172 since that airplane is not a light sport airplane and he or she does not hold operating privileges for that airplane.
(2) The reviewed maneuvers and procedures will vary depending on the category, class, and make and model of the aircraft used. For example, a review in a light multiengine aircraft will be different from one conducted in a small, two-seat tailwheel aircraft that utilizes limited instrumentation. The CFI may wish to recommend that the pilot complete the review in the aircraft most commonly flown, or in a more complex make and model used if he or she regularly flies several aircraft. The CFI may also wish to recommend that the pilot take a review in more than one category/class of aircraft under certain circumstances. For example, a pilot with ASEL and glider ratings may have flown only gliders in the last 2 years but is also contemplating flying single-engine airplanes in the near future. If a CFI is approached by a pilot who requests a review only in the glider, the CFI may wish to recommend an additional review by a qualified person in a single-engine airplane before the pilot acts as PIC of a single-engine airplane.
b. Nature of Flight Operations. The CFI should consider the type of flying usually done by the pilot before establishing the review plan for conducting his or her review. For example, a pilot conducting long-distance flights between busy terminal areas may need a different review than a pilot who usually flies in the local area from the same airport. The CFI should consider the need for an in-depth review of certain subjects or procedures if the type of flight operations is likely to change, or if other extenuating circumstances exist. For example, a pilot who normally conducts only local flight operations may plan to begin flying to a location with Class B airspace. Another pilot may only operate a two-seat aircraft without radio but will operate in close proximity to Class B airspace. In both cases, the CFI should include Class B airspace operating requirements and procedures in the flight review. This review should also include pertinent revisions to operational regulations to ensure that the pilot has full knowledge of these changes.
c. Amount and Recency of Flight Experience. The CFI should review the pilot’s logbook to determine total flight time, time-in-type, and recency of experience in order to evaluate the need for particular maneuvers and procedures in the review. For example, a pilot who has not flown in several years may require an extensive review of basic maneuvers from the PTS appropriate to that pilot’s certificate level. Pilots should pay particular attention to the special-emphasis areas found in the PTS. The same pilot may also require a more extensive review of 14 CFR part 91, including changes in airspace and other requirements. Another pilot who is upgrading to a newer or faster airplane should receive more emphasis on knowledge of aircraft systems and performance, or in cross-country procedures appropriate to a faster airplane.
Regardless of flight experience, the CFI should ensure that the review plan includes all areas in which he or she determines that the pilot should receive training in order to operate safely. In