FAA Rule Changes Spark Flight Training Concerns

Proposed DPE regulation updates, impacting check rides and instructor certification, face January 23 comment deadline.

Meg Godlewski

Thursday, January 22, 2026 at 09:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

FAA insignia on a laptop [Credit: Shutterstock]

Key Takeaways:

The FAA is soliciting feedback on proposed changes to Order 8000.95D Change 1, with a deadline of January 23rd, which will alter how practical pilot tests (check rides) are conducted.
Key proposed changes include a new 5-hour pilot-in-command requirement for Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) in each aircraft make/model, restrictions on when DPEs can collect fees, and limitations on administering flight instructor practical tests.
Concerns are that these changes could lead to reduced DPE availability, increased scheduling difficulties, higher costs for applicants, and bottlenecks in flight instructor training.
Flight instructors and flight schools are urged to provide their input to the FAA on the potential negative impact of these proposed rule changes on the flight training process.

See a mistake? Contact us.

The deadline is less than 48 hours away for flight instructors and flight school owners to let the FAA know their thoughts on proposed changes to a rule that will affect how practical tests are conducted.

The deadline for commenting on FAA Order 8000.95D Change 1 is 11:59 p.m. EST on January 23. The order will alter the way designated pilot examiners (DPEs) operate and how flight schools schedule and conduct these tests, commonly known as check rides.