An applicant is completing the aeronautical experience requirements for an initial flight instructor certificate with an airplane category rating. According to 14 CFR 61.183, which of the following is one of the required aeronautical experience items?
- ALogged at least 250 hours of total flight time as a certificated pilot
- BLogged at least 15 hours as pilot in command in the category and class of aircraft appropriate to the flight instructor rating sought
- CLogged at least 100 hours of solo cross-country time within the preceding 24 months
- DHold an Airline Transport Pilot certificate in the category sought
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Logged at least 15 hours as pilot in command in the category and class of aircraft appropriate to the flight instructor rating sought
14 CFR 61.183(g) requires an applicant for an initial flight instructor certificate to have logged at least 15 hours as pilot in command in the category and class of aircraft that is appropriate to the flight instructor rating sought. There is no 250-hour total time or ATP requirement for a CFI initial certificate.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. There is no 250-hour total time requirement specific to CFI initial certification under 61.183.
- C. There is no such 100-hour solo cross-country requirement in 61.183.
- D. An ATP certificate is not required to become a flight instructor.
CFI Initial Aeronautical Experience (61.183)
An applicant for an initial flight instructor certificate must meet several requirements, including logging at least 15 hours as PIC in the category and class of aircraft appropriate to the rating sought.
- At least 15 hours PIC in appropriate category/class required
- Applicant must already hold a commercial or ATP certificate with that rating
- Must pass a fundamentals of instructing and specific CFI knowledge/practical tests
Memory trick: Fifteen hours PIC — the CFI's minimum 'seat time' before teaching others.