Even though flight reviews were begun in 1974, the AOPA Air Safety Foundation continues to field questions about the review process. These questions indicate a continuing need for better understanding of the review. Even today, the flight review is undergoing further examination by the FAA and the aviation industry in order to improve the product — flight safety.

The following list of the 50 most frequently asked questions are followed by answers that have been thoroughly researched for accuracy and should serve to dispel common misconceptions about the review process. The list contains excerpts from the FARs and Advisory Circulars 61.65 and 61.98.

Federal Aviation Regulations Part 91, General Operating and Flight Rules, cited herein are numbered in accordance with the revision and reorganization of FAR Part 91 that became effective August 18, 1990.

The flight review concept

The character of the review should be established in a discussion between the pilot and flight instructor prior to beginning the review. This can be done by discussing the flight review's basic content, including the elements to be covered in both the oral and flight portions. These elements should be understood by the pilot and the flight instructor prior to initiating any phase of the review.

Each review should be individually tailored to meet, at the reasonable discretion of the flight instructor, the safe operating demands of the pilot. The primary objective of any review should be to access the pilot's knowledge of, and ability to successfully perform, safe flight operations. Rather than using standard guidelines or a list of maneuvers, flight instructors are encouraged to determine the safe operating needs of each pilot and then formulate a meaningful review tailored to meet those needs.

The flight review regulation is reprinted below.

1. A flight review consists of a minimum of 1 hour of flight instruction and 1 hour of ground instruction.
   The review must include:
   1. A review of the current general operating and flight rules of Part 91 of this chapter; and
   2. A review of those maneuvers and procedures which, at the discretion of the person giving the review, are necessary for the pilot to demonstrate the safe exercises of the privileges of the pilot certificate.
2. Glider pilots may substitute a minimum of three instructional flights in a glider, each of which includes a 360-degree turn, in lieu of the 1 hour of flight instruction required in paragraph (a) of this section.
3. Except as provided in paragraphs (d) and (e) of this section, no person may act as pilot in command of an aircraft unless, since the beginning of the 24th calendar month before the month in which that pilot acts as pilot in command, that person has:
   1. Accomplished a flight review given in an aircraft for which that pilot is rated by an appropriately rated instructor certificated under this part or other person designated by the Administrator; and
   2. A logbook endorsed by the person who gave the review certifying that the person has satisfactorily completed the review.
4. A person who has, within the period specified in paragraph (c ) of this section, satisfactorily completed a pilot proficiency check conducted by the FAA, an approved pilot check airman, or a U.S. Armed Force, for a pilot certificate, rating, or operating privilege, need not accomplish the flight review required by this section.
5. A person who has, within the period specified in paragraph (c ) of this section, satisfactorily completed one or more phases of an FAA-sponsored pilot proficiency award program need not accomplish the flight review required by this section.
6. A person who holds a current flight instructor certificate who has, within the period specified in paragraph (c ) of this section, satisfactorily completed a renewal of a flight instructor certificate under the provisions of Sec. 61.197 (c ), need not accomplish the 1 hour of ground instruction specified in subparagraph (a) (1) of this section.
7. The requirements of this section may be accomplished in combination with the requirements of Sec. 61.57 and other applicable recency requirements at the discretion of the instructor.

1. Who must meet the flight review requirements?
   Anyone who intends to act as pilot in command and is not affected by the exemptions listed below. In addition, recreational pilots must receive instruction as required by FAR Section 61.101(d) if more than 180 days have passed since they acted as pilot in command of an airplane.
   

2. Which operations exempt a pilot from the flight review requirements?
   The following serve as exemptions:
   • FAR Section 61.58 pilot proficiency check.
   • FAR Part 121 pilot proficiency check.
   • FAR Part 135 pilot proficiency check.
   • FAR Part 141 chief pilot proficiency check.
   • Military pilot proficiency check.
   • Other proficiency checks administered by the FAA.
   • Pilot examiner annual flight check.
   • Flight test for any certificate or rating.
   • Operations specifically authorized by the FAA.
   • Satisfactory completion of any phase of the FAA "Wings" program.
   
   
3. Who is authorized to conduct flight reviews?
   Any appropriately certificated instructor or other person designated by the FAA Administrator. For more information, see questions 39, 40, and 41.
   

4. Will a notice of a flight review that was not successful be forwarded to the FAA?
   No.
   

5. Does an instrument competency check serve as a flight review?
   No. The instructor may combine the two functions during the same flight, however. In that case, the pilot's logbook must be endorsed for a competency check and flight review.

6. I hold a student pilot certificate. Must I get a flight review?
   No. Flight reviews are required for those persons holding recreational, private, commercial, and airline transport pilot certificates. Your general operating rules are contained in FAR Part 61, Subpart C.
   

7. Why should I get a flight review?
   The purpose of the review is to ensure that you continue to update and expand your skills as a pilot. You fly with an instructor of your choice who will assist you in improving your piloting abilities and make sure you're up-to-date on current regulations, operating practices, and other subjects he or she deems appropriate. The object is to make flying safer for everyone. Additionally, you would be in violation of applicable FARs if you acted as pilot in command after the expiration date of your review.
   

8. My last flight review was conducted on 07-16-96. When will it expire?
   From the review's inception in November 1974 until January 1987, the expiration occurred at the end of 24 months. In order to standardize the duration of reviews, the FAA changed the FAR to place the expiration date at the end of the month. Effective January 6, 1987, flight reviews are valid for 24 calendar months. Your review is current through 07/31/98.
   

9. My flight review is not current. Is my pilot certificate invalid?
   No. Your pilot certificate is valid until surrendered, suspended, or revoked. You may not act as pilot in command until you satisfactorily complete a flight review, however, you may act as second in command and as a safety pilot.
   

10. I do not intend to carry passengers. Can't I fly solo?
    No. You are acting as pilot in command during solo flight. Therefore, you need a current review.
    

11. How do I get current to act as pilot in command?
    Simple. Satisfactorily complete a flight review.
    

12. Must I possess a current medical certificate when I get a flight review?
    No. You cannot act as pilot in command, however, either during the flight review or at any time thereafter until you have been issued a medical certificate.
    

13. If I do not satisfactorily complete a flight review, must I return to the same flight instructor for my next attempt?
    No. You still have the choice of using any instructor. However, using the same instructor should save time because that instructor may already have evaluated some areas as satisfactory.
    

14. My flight review has expired. May an instructor endorse my logbook for solo flight, allowing me to practice maneuvers prior to taking my flight review?
    No. There is no provision in the FARs that permits an instructor to endorse a certificated pilot's logbook for solo flight following the expiration of a flight review.
    

15. I am currently taking dual instruction for an additional rating. Must I get a flight review?
    You may not act as pilot in command after your current flight review expires. If you wish to continue, you must satisfactorily complete a flight review or obtain the additional rating before your current flight review expires.
    

16. May I go back to an instructor who previously gave me flight instruction and have him sign my logbook for the satisfactory completion of a flight review?
    If you do so, recognize that you are asking the instructor to rely on memory of your previous flight(s) to ascertain whether, at that time, you met the criteria for the satisfactory completion of a flight review. Furthermore, endorsement of a flight review under those circumstances does not permit the instructor to evaluate and comment on your current flight proficiency and knowledge of FAR Part 91.
    

17. Must I get a flight review in each category and class of aircraft for which I am rated?
    No. The satisfactory completion of a flight review allows you to exercise the privilege of pilot in command in all categories and classes of aircraft on your pilot certificate. Recognizing that flight characteristics of aircraft differ, many pilots, however, elect to get flight reviews in each category and class held on their pilot certificate.
    

18. I hold a commercial pilot certificate. Must I demonstrate all the maneuvers contained in the commercial practical test standards?
    Not necessarily. You are required to demonstrate those maneuvers and procedures determined by the flight instructor as necessary to assure you can safely exercise the privileges of your certificate. See question 38 for more details.
    

19. I have an instrument rating. Will my flight review include a review of instrument maneuvers and procedures?
    Not necessarily. The maneuvers and procedures included in a flight review are solely at the discretion of the person conducting the review.
    

20. Must I take an FAA written examination?
    No. There is a requirement, however, that you demonstrate your knowledge of the general operating and flight rules of FAR Part 91.
    

21. How will I demonstrate this?
    Usually through an informal question-and-answer session with the instructor. However, in some cases, the instructor may provide a questionnaire for you to complete.
    

22. How can I show satisfactory completion of a flight review?
    Your logbook will be endorsed by the instructor who gave you the review.
    

23. How will the endorsement appear?
    Advisory Circular 61-65 recommends the endorsement read as follows: Mr./Mrs._____________ Holder of Pilot Certificate #00000001 has satisfactorily completed a flight review on 08-08-95 s/sJ. Jones 123456 CFI, EXP. 12-21-96.
    

24. Must I now carry my logbook on all flights?
    No. You are only required to show logbook evidence if requested.
    

25. To whom must I present this evidence?
    The FAA Administrator or any person to whom he has delegated his authority, or an authorized representative of the NTSB or any state or local law enforcement officer. Additionally, you may be asked to show the evidence to a fixed-based operator in order to rent an airplane.
    

26. How do I log the flight time?
    Because the regulation specifically states "1 hour of flight instruction," it must be logged as dual instruction received. However, in accordance with FAR 61.51(c)(2)(i), you may also log, as pilot in command, that time during which you were the sole manipulator of the controls, provided that you have a current flight review.
    

27. Is my aircraft required to have the instruments and equipment required for instrument flight rules flight?
    Your aircraft must have the instruments and equipment required for the type of flight operations you intend to conduct. This decision should be made during the preflight discussion phase of the review.
    

28. May I get a flight review in an aircraft that does not have dual controls?
    No. FAR 61.56 specifically requires "flight instruction" and FAR 91.109 requires that all flight instruction be given in aircraft equipped with dual controls. The only exception to this requirement is instrument instruction given in an aircraft with a single throw-over control wheel.
    

29. Can I take a flight review in a single-place airplane?
    No. Again, FAR 61.56 requires that at least one hour of flight instruction be given to qualify as a review. The term "flight instruction" is generally construed to mean instruction given to a person while in an aircraft accompanied by a flight instructor. Although it is always possible for the FAA to change its interpretation, the present answer to this question is that a flight review cannot be conducted in a single place aircraft.
    

30. Can I take a flight review in an aircraft certified in the Experimental category?
    Yes. It must meet the dual-control requirements and, of course, any limitations imposed by FAR 91.319. In addition, you must comply with the applicable limitations on the aircraft's airworthiness certificate.
    

31. May I use a ground trainer exclusively for a flight review?
    Except as provided in question two, a flight in an aircraft must occur at some point in the review process.
    

32. I recently acquired a pilot certificate issued by a foreign country. Does this serve as a flight review?
    No.
    

33. I am residing outside of the United States. Do I need a flight review?
    If you are acting as pilot in command on the basis of your U.S. pilot certificate, you must have a current flight review. Acting as pilot in command on the basis of a foreign certificate does not require a flight review unless required by the foreign country.
    

34. I am recently discharged military pilot. The date of my last military pilot proficiency check is 10-20-96. When must I complete a flight review?
    In order to continue acting as pilot in command, you must satisfactorily complete a flight review on or before 10-31-98.

35. Who acts as pilot in command during the conduct of a flight review?
    
    This question should be resolved before flight so that both you and the pilot have a clear understanding of command responsibilities. You should inspect the pilot's logbook, pilot certificate, and medical certificate to ensure that he or she is qualified to act as pilot in command. If the pilot does not meet the pilot-in-command requirements, you must assume that role. While you are in the process of inspecting paperwork, don't forget to check the status of the aircraft. Is it airworthy?
    

36. What is the minimum amount of time for a review?
    The time required will vary with the individual pilot and instructor. Reviews must consist of at least one hour of ground and one hour of flight instruction.
    

37. What subjects are covered during the oral portion?
    As you know, the only subject specified by FAR Section 61.56 is FAR Part 91. It is recommended that you tailor the review of Part 91 to the needs of the pilot being reviewed. The objective is to ensure that the pilot can comply with regulatory requirements and operate safety in various types of airspace and under various weather conditions. As a result, you should conduct a review that is broad enough to meet this objective, yet provide a more comprehensive and in-depth review in those areas where the pilot's knowledge is not as extensive. In the latter instances, you may wish to employ a variety of reference sources to ensure that the pilot's knowledge is current.
    The review of Part 91 is critical due to the increasing complexity of airspace and the need to ensure that all pilots are familiar with Class B, Class C, and other types of airspace. The flight review may be the only regular proficiency and updating period experienced by some pilots. Accordingly, you should place appropriate emphasis on this part of the review.
    The following outline may provide you with a useful format for organizing the Part 91 review and ensuring that essential areas are covered.

    Subpart A — General

    91.3 Responsibility and authority of the pilot in command
    91.7 Civil aircraft airworthiness
    91.9 Civil aircraft flight manual, marking, and placards
    91.17 Alcohol or drugs
    91.21 Portable electronic devices
    

    Subpart B — Flight Rules

    91.103 Preflight action
    91.107 Use of safety belts, shoulder harnesses and child restraint
    91.113 Right of way rules
    91.117 Aircraft speed
    91.119 Minimum safe altitudes
    91.123 Compliance with ATC clearances and instructions
    91.126-130 Operations in Class A, B, C, D, E and G airspace
    91.139 Emergency air traffic rules
    91.151 Fuel requirements for flight in VFR conditions
    91.155 Basic VFR weather minimums
    91.157 Special VFR weather minimums
    91.167 Fuel requirements for flight in IFR conditions
    91.175 Takeoff and landing under IFR
    91.177 Minimum altitudes for IFR operations
    91.185 IFR operations: Two-way radio communications failure
    

    Subpart C — Equipment, Instrument, and Certificate Requirements

    91.207 Emergency locator transmitters
    91.213 Inoperative instruments and equipment
    91.215 ATC transponder and altitude reporting equipment and use
    

    Subpart D — Special Flight Operations

    91.303 Aerobatic flight
    91.325 Primary Category Aircraft: Operating limitations
    

    Subpart E — Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance and Alterations

    91.409 Inspections
    91.411 Altimeter system and altitude reporting equipment tests
    91.413 ATC transponder tests and inspections
    91.417 Maintenance records

    Other subjects recommended for discussion with the pilot include aviation weather, aeronautical charts, navigation, weight and balance, and the pilot's operating handbook.

38. What maneuvers and procedures are covered during the in-flight portion?
    Prior to undertaking the review, you should interview the pilot to determine the nature of his or her flying and operating requirements. The maneuvers and procedures reviewed will vary, depending on the make and model of the aircraft used. For example, a review in a light multiengine airplane should be different from one conducted in a small, two-seat tailwheel airplane without radio or extra instrumentation. You may wish to recommend that the pilot take the flight review in the aircraft usually flown, or in the most complex make and model if several aircraft are flown regularly. You should also consider your own experience and qualifications in a given make and model aircraft prior to giving a flight review in that model.

    You should also consider the type of flying generally performed by the pilot prior to establishing a plan for conducting his or her flight review. For example, a pilot conducting long-distance flights between busy terminal areas may need a different review than a pilot who generally flies in the local area from the same airport. Nevertheless, you should consider the need for an in-depth review of certain subjects or procedures if the type of flight operations is likely to change or if other circumstances exist. For example, a pilot who normally conducts only local flight operations may be planning to begin flying to a location in Class B airspace. Another pilot may operate only a two-seat aircraft without a radio but in close proximity to Class B airspace. In both cases, you should include Class B requirements and operating procedures as part of the flight review.

    You should review the pilot's logbook to determine total fight experience and type and recency of experience in order to evaluate the need for particular maneuvers and procedures during the flight review. For example, a pilot who has not flown in several years may require an extensive review of basic maneuvers from the practical test standards appropriate to the pilot's grade of certificate. This same pilot may also require a more extensive review of FAR Part 91, including recent changes in airspace and other requirements.

    Regardless of flight experience, you should ensure that the plan includes all areas in which you determine that the pilot should receive a review in order to operate safely.

    Additional information may be found in Advisory Circulars 61.65 and 61.98.

39. The only rating on my flight instructor certificate is instrument-airplane. Which aircraft may I use?
    In order to conduct flight reviews, a flight instructor must hold a category rating on his or her instructor certificate. Because you hold an instrument rating only, you are not authorized to conduct flight reviews.

40. The ratings on my pilot certificate include airplane, single and multiengine land and glider. The ratings on my flight instructor certificate include airplane, multiengine and glider. Which aircraft may I use?
    You may conduct flight reviews in all multiengine land airplanes that weigh 12,500 pounds or less, which are not turbojet powered, and gliders. You may not conduct flight reviews in a single-engine airplane because you do not hold that airplane class on your instructor certificate.

41. The ratings on my pilot certificate include airplane, single and multiengine land. The ratings on my flight instructor certificate include airplane, single and multiengine. May I give a flight review in a single-engine seaplane?
    No. You may not conduct a flight review in a single-engine seaplane because you do not hold that airplane class on your pilot certificate.

    In summary, the aircraft category and class used for the flight review must appear on the pilot's certificate, your pilot certificate, and your flight instructor certificate.

42. Must I possess a current medical certificate when I conduct a flight review?
    No. You should ensure, however, during the preflight phase of the review, that the pilot is qualified for and accepts the role of pilot in command.

43. Must I have five hours of pilot-in-command flight time in each make and model of aircraft in which I conduct flight instruction for the issuance of a certificate or rating in multiengine airplanes and helicopters?
    No. The five-hour experience requirements is for giving flight instruction for the issuance of a certificate or rating in multiengine airplanes and helicopters.

44. What are my responsibilities following the conduct of a flight review?
    Upon completion of the review, you should debrief the pilot and inform him or her whether the review was satisfactory or unsatisfactory. Regardless of this determination, you should provide the pilot with comprehensive analysis of his or her performance, including any weak areas. If the flight review was satisfactory, endorse the pilot's logbook accordingly. You should not endorse the pilot's logbook to reflect an unsatisfactory review.

45. How do I log the flight time?
    You may log the entire flight as pilot-in-command time as provided by FAR Section 61.51(c)(2)(iii).

46. Must I keep record of the flight reviews I administer?
    Although the FARs do not require you to keep a record of flight reviews you give, it is highly recommended that you do so.

47. Am I required to get flight reviews?
    Yes. If you do not meet an exemption listed in question 2 and you want to retain the privilege to act as pilot in command, you must meet the requirement.

48. Must I go to the FAA for my flight review?
    No. An appropriately certificated instructor or person designated by the FAA administrator may conduct your flight review.

49. May I endorse my logbook for the satisfactory completion of a flight review?
    The FARs do not specifically prohibit this; however, clearly the intent of FAR Section 61.56 is for an impartial observer to review your flying skills and discuss FAR Part 91 with you.

50. Will attendance at a flight instructor refresher course serve as a flight review?
    Attendance at a course conducted to meet the provision of FAR Section 61.197(c) does not exempt an attendee from the flight portion of the review. Attendance will satisfy the ground portion of the review.