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 proposing changes to Order 8000.95D Change 1, affecting how Designated Pilot Examiners (DPEs) conduct practical tests, with a public comment deadline of January 23.
Key proposed changes include DPEs needing five hours of pilot-in-command time in each aircraft make and model for check rides, and a prohibition on collecting fees before applicant eligibility is determined.
These changes could limit the pool of available DPEs, leading to increased scheduling difficulties, longer wait times, higher costs for applicants, and administrative burdens for flight schools.
Organizations like the National Association of Flight Instructors (NAFI) express concerns that the proposals will complicate the flight training process and are urging feedback from their members.

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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.