Good-Bye PTS; Hello ACS

If the FARs and the AIM comprise the bible of flying, the practical test standards (PTS) would be favored hymn books. But, just as the worlds religions occasionally modernize themselves, the FAA is getting ready to burn PTSes on the pyre in exchange for a completely new system.The new system, known as the Airman Certification Standards (ACS), is a major overhaul of the certification process effecting every license and rating. Whether youre thinking about adding to your ticket, are an instructor or you simply plan to get an IPC, it would behoove you to know a little about these changes before they arrive. The last thing you want is that deer-in-the-headlight look if the instructor asks you to review the pertinent ACS.

Key Takeaways:

• The FAA is replacing the existing Practical Test Standards (PTS) with the new Airman Certification Standards (ACS) for all pilot certifications and ratings.
• The ACS aims to resolve deficiencies in the current system, particularly the irrelevant and memorization-based knowledge tests, by integrating knowledge, skills, and a new mandatory risk management component into every task.
• This overhaul will clarify training, testing, and currency requirements, align all FAA training and testing documents, and provide specific, actionable feedback for missed knowledge test questions, leading to more rigorous and relevant pilot certification.

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