Pilots and flight instructors have a new FAA advisory circular, AC 61-98D, to guide them through both the flight reviews and instrument proficiency checks required under Part 61. This newest version of the circular addresses changes in technology and the operational environment, their impact on recurrent training and proficiency checks. The FAA added important safety information from the General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC), findings and recommendations designed to help improve the GA accident rate. These new 61-98D guidelines do not however, apply to pilots operating under Part 121 or Part 135 training regimes.
FAA Releases Updated Circular on Flight Reviews and IPCs
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA has released AC 61-98D, a new advisory circular for Part 61 pilots and instructors, updating guidance for flight reviews and instrument proficiency checks (IPCs) with a focus on modern technology, the operational environment, and General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC) safety recommendations.
- AC 61-98D emphasizes frequent recurrent training, clarifying that the "biennial flight review" concept is outdated and encouraging pilots to train as often as necessary; it also reiterates that flight reviews and IPCs are not tests, but evaluations requiring instructor endorsement.
- The circular provides important insights on critical topics such as loss of control, night currency, recency of experience, and detailed instrument IFR requirements, while also encouraging pilots to optionally submit completed forms to document their reviews for official records.
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