FAA Sport Pilot Airplane (SPA)RegulationsEasy
A sport pilot has not flown any aircraft in over two years and wants to resume flying as pilot in command. What must this pilot accomplish before acting as PIC again?
- AA minimum of 5 hours of dual instruction in a light-sport aircraft only
- BA new practical test with a designated pilot examiner
- CNothing, since sport pilots are exempt from flight review requirements
- DA flight review under 14 CFR 61.56 within the preceding 24 calendar months, with a logbook endorsement
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. A flight review under 14 CFR 61.56 within the preceding 24 calendar months, with a logbook endorsement
Sport pilots are not exempt from 14 CFR 61.56; like all pilots, they must accomplish a flight review with an authorized instructor within the preceding 24 calendar months and receive a logbook endorsement before acting as PIC.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. There is no fixed 5-hour dual requirement tied specifically to lapsed currency.
- B. A full practical test with a DPE is not required for a flight review.
- C. Sport pilots are subject to the same flight review requirement as other certificate holders.
Flight Review Applicability
All pilot certificate holders, including sport pilots, must complete a flight review every 24 calendar months per 14 CFR 61.56.
- Minimum 1 hour flight + 1 hour ground instruction
- Conducted by an authorized instructor
- Logbook endorsement required to document completion
Memory trick: Every 2 years, review or don't fly - no sport pilot exemption.