FAA Flight Instructor Airplane (FIA)Flight Maneuvers and EndorsementsEasy
A flight instructor is preparing to endorse a student pilot's logbook for a first solo flight. According to 14 CFR 61.87, which of the following must the instructor have done?
- AVerified the student has passed the FAA private pilot knowledge test
- BConfirmed the student has logged at least 10 hours of dual instruction in any aircraft
- CProvided training on the maneuvers listed in 61.87(d) and endorsed the logbook for the specific make and model within the preceding 90 days
- DEnsured the student holds a current flight review
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. Provided training on the maneuvers listed in 61.87(d) and endorsed the logbook for the specific make and model within the preceding 90 days
14 CFR 61.87 requires that before solo flight, the instructor must have trained the student in the maneuvers and procedures listed in 61.87(d), determined the student is proficient, and endorsed the student's logbook for the specific make and model of aircraft within the preceding 90 days.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. The knowledge test is required for solo cross-country flights (61.93), not the first solo endorsement.
- B. There is no specific 10-hour dual instruction requirement in 61.87 for first solo.
- D. Student pilots are not required to hold a flight review since they have not yet been certificated as pilots.
First Solo Endorsement (61.87)
Before a student pilot may solo, the instructor must provide training in required maneuvers, determine proficiency, and endorse the logbook for the specific make and model within the preceding 90 days.
- Training must cover maneuvers listed in 61.87(d)
- Endorsement is specific to make and model of aircraft
- Endorsement is valid for 90 days
- Student must also meet aeronautical knowledge requirements per 61.87(b)
Memory trick: '90 days, same plane' is the rule for solo endorsements.