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Which Three Approaches?

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • Previous FAA interpretations (Glaser 2008, Pratt 2012) restrictively defined the instrument rating's cross-country flight requirement, demanding "three different kinds of *navigation systems*" instead of "approaches" and initially excluding radar approaches (ASR/PAR).
  • On February 28, 2022, the FAA Chief Counsel rescinded these interpretations, clarifying that the regulation requires "three different kinds of *approaches*" and that ASR/PAR are valid navigation systems.
  • The FAA's Flight Standards division is currently developing new official guidance to define what specific approach types qualify, with expectations for a more practical policy that acknowledges modern navigation capabilities.
See a mistake? Contact us.

Aeronautical experience requirements for the coveted instrument rating include a dual cross country flight. On February 28, 2022, the FAA Chief Counsel rescinded two earlier interpretations regarding the required content of that flight. But the rescission doesn’t end the story or the questions. As of this writing, there is an important question outstanding. We will discuss some thoughts about what we think is likely, but we need to await final word from the FAA.

Three Different Approaches

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