While complete engine failures are not common, the stakes are high which is why pilots train extensively for such occurrences and why they get evaluated as part of a checkride. If faced with an engine failure, or training for your next engine failure with your instructor, act quick and decisively by remembering what you learned in kindergarten – your ABCs.

These commonly missed questions often focus on nuanced regulations, meteorology, flight planning, and airspace rules. Understanding why these questions are frequently misunderstood can help test-takers better prepare and avoid making costly mistakes. Here are the five most often missed questions from January 2025 on the simulated Private Pilot Knowledge Test.

A seemingly subtle change to § 61.57 that went into effect in early December has a significant affect on PIC currency requirements. Of course, everyone is aware that three takeoffs and landings in the same category, class, and type (if required) are required to carry “passengers,” but the recent update to landing currency in § 61.57(a)(b) replaces the word “passengers” with “persons.”