Sport Pilot proficiency check by a CFI equivalent to Flight Review.

[FixedWing]

I think the forum might find this interesting.

Does the proficiency check required by § 61.321(b) for a Sport Pilot or higher certificated pilot also meet the proficiency check or practical test requirement for the § 61.56(d) flight review exemption requirement?

An airman who has passed the pilot proficiency check required by Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) § 61.321(b) need not accomplish a flight review within the proceeding twenty four calendar months, as prescribed in § 61.56(d)(1).

…

What is the status of the authorized instructor while conducting the Sport Pilot proficiency check with respect to 14 CFR § 61.47?

In accordance with § 61.413(a)(9), a flight instructor with a sport pilot rating has the authority to conduct proficiency checks for additional category and class privileges to an airman’s sport pilot certificate. 14 CFR § 61.1 states, in pertinent part, that an examiner is a person who is authorized by the Administrator to conduct pilot proficiency tests. The sport pilot flight instructor conducting a proficiency check would be acting in the capacity of an examiner and would not be the PIC during the flight.​

-- Palmer, Bradley, FAA Inspector, Response to request for legal interpretation from the General Aviation and Commercial Division, Flight Standards Service (AFS-800) dated 24 April 2017

I would link to a PDF of the full letter but apparently I am not allowed to do so.

So, this provides an additional option to those needing a flight review. They can now meet the flight review requirement by adding a Sport Pilot privilege in a new category and/or class of aircraft.

Stephen

 

[citizen5000]

You can fail a proficiency check you cannot fail a flight review. Also. You can skip the flight review if you get a proficiency check (or new rating) but you cannot skip a proficiency check if you do a flight review.

A flight examiner with the appropriate endorsement can conduct a proficiency check and must be authorised to fly the type of aircraft being used for the check. If the check is for an operational rating, the examiner must also be authorised to conduct a flight test for that rating.

A proficiency check conducted by a Certified Flight Instructor for an additional Sport Pilot privilege may also be substituted for a flight review.