Maintaining Currencies

 

Private Pilot / Contract Pilot (PART 91)

According to CFR 61.57, In order to act as Pilot In Command in an aircraft carrying passengers:

  • You are required to maintain currency in the same Category, Class, and Type aircraft that you are intending to fly.
  • You are required to have a minimum of three takeoffs and three landings within the last three months (90 days). If you are to fly at night, then three takeoffs and landings to a full stop must be accomplished at night as well, within the last three months.
  • To remain IFR flight current, six approaches must be logged within the last six months.
  • In order to complete the above requirements, you may act as a pilot in command of an aircraft under day VFR or day IFR, provided no persons or property are carried on board the aircraft, other than those necessary for the conduct of the flight.
  • Don’t forget that you must also have had a Checkride within the preceding 24 months.
  • Pilots who require corrective lenses SHOULD carry a spare set of lenses for use within the US according to the FAA and they MUST carry a spare pair of lenses while flying internationally according to ICAO rules.

Instructor Certificate Renewal

According to CFR 61.197, the Instructor Certificate is required to be renewed every 24 months.

You do not want to allow this to lapse because if it does, you will need to re-accomplish an instructor checkride all over again.

All that is needed, is proof that you have been instructing, and you need to pass a Flight Instructor Rating practical test.  If you haven’t been instructing but wish to keep you certificate, you will need to go through some kind of Flight Instructor Renewal Course.

Documents Required For Flight

According to CFR 61.3, you must have the following documents with you whenever you fly:

  • Some kind of issued Photo ID
  • Your Pilot Certificate as well as your Instructor Certificate if you will be instructing.
  • A current and appropriate Medical Certificate