Mastering Pilot Currency & Flight Reviews: Your Guide to Safe Piston Flying
For every pilot, staying current and proficient isn’t just a recommendation; it’s a fundamental requirement for safe and legal flight operations. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has specific regulations in place to ensure pilots maintain the necessary skills and knowledge, especially for those who fly single-engine and twin-piston aircraft.1 Understanding these requirements, particularly the flight review and pilot currency, is paramount. At The Aero Center, we believe that informed pilots are safe pilots, and we are dedicated to supporting your continuous airworthiness through expert maintenance and guidance.
THE FLIGHT REVIEW: A BIPARTISAN APPROACH TO PROFICIENCY
The cornerstone of pilot currency for most pilots is the flight review, outlined in 14 CFR § 61.56.2 Unless specifically exempted, every pilot must satisfactorily complete a flight review within the preceding 24 calendar months to act as pilot in command (PIC) of an aircraft.3 This isn’t just a checkride; it’s an opportunity to refresh your skills and knowledge, adapt to any changes in regulations, and ensure you remain a safe and competent aviator.
The flight review typically consists of a minimum of one hour of flight training and one hour of ground training.4 The ground portion focuses on a review of the current general operating and flight rules of 14 CFR Part 91, which covers the rules for general aviation operations. The flight portion is designed to assess your ability to safely exercise the privileges of your pilot certificate. The authorized instructor conducting the review will determine the specific maneuvers and procedures necessary to demonstrate your proficiency. This personalized approach ensures the review is tailored to your individual needs and experience.
Think of the flight review not as a hurdle, but as a commitment to continuous improvement. Pilots who consistently engage in training and seek opportunities to enhance their skills demonstrate a high level of responsibility. We’ve seen countless pilots in California, Arizona, and Nevada who, through diligent adherence to these requirements, maintain exceptional safety records. This consistent commitment to safety sets a strong example for the entire aviation community.
EXCEPTIONS TO THE RULE: ALTERNATIVES TO THE STANDARD FLIGHT REVIEW
While the standard flight review is the most common path to currency, the FAA does provide certain exceptions.5 For instance, successfully completing a pilot proficiency check or practical test for a pilot certificate, rating, or operating privilege, conducted by an examiner or approved check airman, can fulfill the flight review requirement.6 Similarly, pilots who satisfactorily complete one or more phases of an FAA-sponsored pilot proficiency program, such as the WINGS program, within the 24-calendar-month period, are exempt from the standard flight review.
Flight instructors also have specific provisions. A flight instructor certificate holder doesn’t need to complete the ground training portion of a flight review if they meet the recent experience requirements for a flight instructor certificate or reinstate their privileges through an approved flight instructor refresher course.7 These alternatives emphasize the FAA’s focus on ongoing training and evaluation as pathways to maintaining pilot currency.
PASSENGER CARRYING PRIVILEGES: THE 90-DAY RULE
Beyond the 24-calendar-month flight review, pilots intending to carry passengers have additional recency requirements outlined in 14 CFR § 61.57.8 To act as PIC of an aircraft carrying passengers, a pilot must have made at least three takeoffs and three landings in an aircraft of the same category and class (and type, if a type rating is required) within the preceding 90 days.9 For night flights with passengers, these three takeoffs and landings must be full-stop landings performed during the period beginning one hour after sunset and ending one hour before sunrise.
These “90-day” currency requirements are critical for maintaining sharp handling skills, especially in scenarios involving multiple takeoffs and landings, which often occur during passenger flights. It’s a testament to the effectiveness of these regulations that so many pilots safely transport their loved ones and clients across the skies of California, Arizona, and Nevada, demonstrating the success of these straightforward and essential rules.
THE CRITICAL ROLE OF AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE FOR PISTON ENGINES
While pilot currency focuses on the human element, aircraft airworthiness is equally vital. For single-engine and twin-piston aircraft, diligent maintenance is not just a regulatory obligation; it’s the bedrock of safety and reliability. Piston engines, with their intricate moving parts and combustion processes, require regular and meticulous attention to perform optimally.10
Neglecting maintenance can lead to a cascade of issues, from reduced performance and increased fuel consumption to, most critically, in-flight emergencies.11 Regular oil changes, spark plug inspections and replacements, compression checks, and thorough examinations of the fuel and exhaust systems are paramount. These preventive measures identify potential problems before they escalate into costly repairs or, worse, safety hazards.12 Many accidents can be traced back to inadequate maintenance, a fact that underscores the authority of a well-executed maintenance program.
At The Aero Center, we understand that your aircraft is an investment in both your passion and your safety. Our experienced and certified mechanics specialize in the unique needs of piston aircraft, ensuring every component, from the propeller to the tail, meets the highest standards of airworthiness. We adhere strictly to manufacturer specifications and FAA regulations, giving you confidence in every flight.
MINIMIZING DOWNTIME WITH 24/7 MAINTENANCE
We know that for aircraft owners and operators, downtime is costly. Every hour your aircraft is on the ground for maintenance is an hour it’s not generating revenue or taking you to your desired destination. This is where The Aero Center sets itself apart. We are proud to be the only 24/7 aircraft maintenance center in our service area, covering California, Arizona, and Nevada.
Our round-the-clock operation is designed with your needs in mind. We minimize delays and expedite repairs, getting you back in the air faster. When an unexpected issue arises, our expert team is available day or night to diagnose and address the problem. This unparalleled accessibility means less waiting, less frustration, and ultimately, greater operational efficiency for you. Many of our satisfied clients have consistently praised our prompt service, reporting significantly reduced turnaround times compared to other facilities. This social proof highlights our commitment to efficiency and customer satisfaction.
From routine inspections to complex engine overhauls, our comprehensive services are available whenever you need them. We leverage cutting-edge diagnostic tools and a deep understanding of piston aircraft systems to ensure precision and reliability in every job.
FOOTNOTES:
- Federal Aviation Administration. 14 CFR § 61.56 – Flight review. Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/14/61.56
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. “Currency vs. Proficiency.” AOPA. https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/active-pilots/safety-and-technique/currency-vs-proficiency
- Federal Aviation Administration. Chapter 10 – Engine Maintenance & Operation. FAA Aviation Maintenance Technician Handbook – Airframe, Volume 1 (FAA-H-8083-31A). https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/12_amtp_ch10_0.pdf
- Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association. “Maintaining Your Engine.” AOPA. https://www.aopa.org/training-and-safety/online-learning/safety-spotlights/aircraft-systems/maintaining-your-engine
The Aero Center is located at William J. Fox Airfield KWJF | Lancaster, CA. Contact us at 209.885.6950 for questions or appointments.