FAA Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA)Regulations (14 CFR 61/91)Easy
A commercial pilot holding an instrument rating wants to act as pilot in command under IFR without completing an instrument proficiency check. According to 14 CFR 61.57(c), within the preceding 6 calendar months the pilot must have performed and logged at least how many instrument approaches, along with holding procedures and course intercepting/tracking, in actual or simulated instrument conditions?
- A8
- B6
- C12
- D3
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. 6
14 CFR 61.57(c) requires 6 instrument approaches, holding procedures, and intercepting/tracking of courses through the use of navigation systems within the preceding 6 calendar months to remain instrument current. If this is not met, the pilot needs an instrument proficiency check (IPC) before acting as PIC under IFR.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. 8 approaches is not the required number under 61.57(c).
- C. 12 approaches is not the required number and exceeds the actual requirement.
- D. 3 is not the regulatory number for instrument recency.
Instrument Currency (61.57(c))
To act as PIC under IFR, a pilot must have logged 6 instrument approaches, holding procedures, and course intercepting/tracking within the preceding 6 calendar months.
- Requirement: 6 approaches, holding, intercepting/tracking courses
- Time window: preceding 6 calendar months
- If lapsed: 6 more months grace, then IPC required (61.57(d))
Memory trick: 'Six in Six' — six approaches, six months.