FAA Private Pilot Airplane (PAR)RegulationsMedium
A private pilot holds a current Private Pilot certificate and a current medical certificate. However, the pilot has not completed a flight review within the preceding 24 calendar months. Can this pilot act as pilot in command of an aircraft carrying passengers for a local flight?
- ANo, because a flight review is required every 24 calendar months to act as PIC.
- BYes, as long as the pilot is current for takeoffs and landings.
- CYes, if the passengers are also certificated pilots.
- DNo, unless the pilot completes an IPC (Instrument Proficiency Check).
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. No, because a flight review is required every 24 calendar months to act as PIC.
To act as pilot in command of an aircraft, a pilot must have satisfactorily completed a flight review within the preceding 24 calendar months. This applies regardless of passenger status or takeoff/landing currency.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Takeoff and landing currency is for carrying passengers, but does not substitute for the biennial flight review.
- C. The certification status of passengers does not waive the flight review requirement for the PIC.
- D. An IPC is for maintaining instrument currency and does not replace the general flight review requirement for VFR operations, although passing an IPC can count as a flight review.
Flight Review Requirement
To act as pilot in command of an aircraft, a pilot must have satisfactorily completed a flight review (or an equivalent approved activity) within the preceding 24 calendar months.
- Requirement: Satisfactory completion of a flight review.
- Frequency: Within the preceding 24 calendar months.
- Purpose: To ensure pilot proficiency and knowledge.
- Equivalent Activities: Passing a proficiency check for a certificate/rating, completing a WINGS phase, etc.
Memory trick: PIC: Must Have Medical, Flight Review, and Recent Experience.