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FAA Releases Updated Circular on Flight Reviews and IPCs

Advisory circular addresses technology changes related to flight training. Garmin
Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The new FAA advisory circular AC 61-98D updates recurrent training guidelines for Part 61 pilots and instructors, incorporating safety recommendations from the GAJSC and addressing changes in technology to improve general aviation accident rates.
  • AC 61-98D emphasizes continuous training over the "biennial flight review," focusing on safety and loss of control topics, and clarifies that flight reviews and IPCs are evaluations, not tests, which also include English language proficiency.
  • The circular offers new insights on night currency, recency of experience, and specific instrument proficiency check (IPC) requirements, with AOPA also preparing a new website to enhance the flight review experience.
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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.

Rob Mark

Rob Mark is an award-winning journalist, business jet pilot, flight instructor, and blogger.

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