Understanding FAA Pilot Currency Requirements: How to Stay Legally Airborne
Flying is a skill that requires continuous practice and adherence to regulations to ensure safety. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) mandates specific currency requirements for pilots to maintain their ability to operate legally and safely. Whether you fly under Visual Flight Rules (VFR) or Instrument Flight Rules (IFR), knowing these rules is essential to avoid violations and keep your skills sharp.
In this guide, we’ll break down FAA pilot currency requirements under FAR 61.56 and FAR 61.57, including flight reviews, recent flight experience, and instrument proficiency checks.
Flight Review Requirements (FAR 61.56)
What is a Flight Review?
A flight review is a mandatory refresher training session required by the FAA for pilots to maintain their flying privileges. It consists of:
A minimum of 1 hour of flight training with an authorized instructor.
A minimum of 1 hour of ground training covering regulations and best practices, including a review of general operating and flight rules.
The goal is to ensure pilots maintain a solid understanding of flight operations, safety, and decision-making.
How Often Do Pilots Need a Flight Review?
A flight review is required every 24 calendar months for pilots operating under a private, commercial, or airline transport certificate.
Who Can Conduct a Flight Review?
An authorized instructor, such as a Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) or a Flight Instructor with an Instrument rating (CFII).
An FAA Designated Pilot Examiner (DPE).
Exceptions to the Flight Review Requirement
A pilot is exempt from a flight review if they have:
Passed a practical test for any new pilot certificate or rating within the previous 24 months.
Completed a phase of the FAA’s Wings Pilot Proficiency Program.
Flight Simulator Usage for Flight Reviews
A flight review cannot be completed in a full flight simulator or flight training device unless it is part of an approved course conducted by a certificated training center under Part 142.
Recent Flight Experience for Carrying Passengers (FAR 61.57)
Pilots who carry passengers must meet additional currency requirements beyond the flight review. These rules differ for day and night operations:
Daytime Passenger Currency Requirements
To carry passengers during the day, a pilot must have performed:
Three takeoffs and landings in the past 90 days.
Nighttime Passenger Currency Requirements
To carry passengers at night (between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise), a pilot must have performed:
Three full-stop takeoffs and landings at night in the past 90 days.
These landings must be in the same category and class of aircraft that the pilot intends to fly.
Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) Currency (FAR 61.57c)
IFR Proficiency Requirements
Pilots who operate under IFR must meet additional requirements to ensure they can safely navigate and control an aircraft in low-visibility conditions.
To remain IFR current, a pilot must complete, within the past six calendar months:
Six instrument approaches.
Holding procedures and tasks.
Intercepting and tracking navigational courses using electronic systems.
What Happens If You’re Not IFR Current?
If a pilot does not meet IFR currency requirements within six months, they must:
Perform the required tasks with a safety pilot, flight instructor, or examiner.
If more than 12 months have passed, an Instrument Proficiency Check (IPC) with an instructor is required.
Why FAA Currency Rules Matter
Maintaining FAA currency is essential for: ✅ Ensuring safety in the air. ✅ Avoiding regulatory violations that could result in fines or loss of privileges. ✅ Keeping your skills sharp and preventing accidents.
Ignoring these requirements could result in legal consequences or endanger passengers.
Conclusion
Staying current under FAA regulations isn’t just about following the law—it’s about maintaining the highest safety standards in aviation. By regularly reviewing FAR 61.56 and FAR 61.57, pilots can ensure they remain legal, proficient, and ready to fly.
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