FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)RegulationsMedium
A private pilot holds a Private Pilot Certificate and a current Third-Class Medical Certificate. The pilot has not completed a flight review in 30 months but has recently completed a proficiency check for a new instrument rating. Is the pilot legally able to act as pilot in command for a VFR flight?
- ANo, because a separate flight review is always required every 24 calendar months.
- BYes, because the instrument rating proficiency check satisfies the flight review requirement.
- CYes, but only if the flight is conducted under IFR.
- DNo, because the flight review is overdue by 6 months.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. Yes, because the instrument rating proficiency check satisfies the flight review requirement.
According to 14 CFR Part 61.56, satisfactory completion of a pilot proficiency check conducted by an examiner for an additional pilot certificate or rating satisfies the flight review requirement for 24 calendar months.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A proficiency check is one of the acceptable substitutions for a flight review.
- C. The proficiency check makes the pilot current for both VFR and IFR operations, assuming other IFR currency requirements are met.
- D. While the previous flight review is overdue, the proficiency check resets the 24-calendar-month period.
Flight Review Alternatives
A flight review can be satisfied by completing a pilot proficiency check for an additional pilot certificate or rating, or by receiving an initial pilot certificate.
- This resets the 24-calendar-month period for the flight review.
- Applies to any new certificate or rating (e.g., instrument rating, commercial pilot certificate).
- Ensures the pilot has demonstrated proficiency recently.
Memory trick: A new rating or initial cert, makes your flight review current, no hurt!