The FAA has addressed a long-simmering aircraft availability issue that focuses on pilots trying to earn some pilot certificates. Until yesterday, the agency required commercial pilot applicants, as well as applicants for single-engine flight instructor ratings, to fly at least a portion of the checkride in a complex aircraft, that is, one with retractable landing gear, flaps and a constant speed propeller.
FAA Eliminates Complex Aircraft Requirement for Some Checkrides
Key Takeaways:
- The FAA has removed the requirement for complex aircraft (retractable landing gear, flaps, and constant speed propeller) during commercial pilot and single-engine flight instructor checkrides, effective immediately.
- This new policy (N 8900.463) aims to address long-standing aircraft availability issues and significantly reduce costs for applicants by allowing less-expensive airplanes for practical tests.
- Despite the change, commercial pilot applicants are still required to log 10 hours of flight time in a complex aircraft, and pilots must demonstrate proficiency in a complex aircraft before acting as pilot in command of one.
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