Transitioning To Different Aircraft

Most pilots look forward to the challenge involved in qualifying to fly a new make or model aircraft. They anticipate the ritual involved in the checkout and are understandably proud when they receive a signoff from a flight instructor. That ritual may involve one flight and three touch-and-goes, or multiple flights and several instrument approaches, among other operations. Regardless, managing the risks of introducing yourself to a new aircraft is at the core of this…

Robert Wright

Monday, December 18, 2017 at 12:00 AM ET

Verified

The FAA and NTSB regularly collaborate to improve aviation safety. Courtesy of FAA and NTSB

Key Takeaways:

While FAA regulations often don't mandate formal instruction for transitioning to a new aircraft of the same category and class, insurance requirements and sound risk management strongly suggest doing so.
Pilots should proactively identify, assess, and mitigate risks using frameworks like PAVE (Pilot, Aircraft, enVironment, External pressures) when introducing themselves to an unfamiliar aircraft.
Although experienced pilots might undertake a self-transition with careful planning, engaging a qualified flight instructor is generally the safer approach, especially for complex aircraft, specialized operations, or unfamiliar avionics.

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Most pilots look forward to the challenge involved in qualifying to fly a new make or model aircraft. They anticipate the ritual involved in the “checkout” and are understandably proud when they receive a signoff from a flight instructor. That ritual may involve one flight and three touch-and-goes, or multiple flights and several instrument approaches, among other operations. Regardless, managing the risks of introducing yourself to a new aircraft is at the core of this process.