FAA Introduces New Rules for CFIs Effective December 1

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Big changes are coming for certified flight instructors on December 1, 2024. While it's been widely publicized that CFIs will no longer have an expiration date associated with their certificate under the new rules, CFIs are required to maintain recent flight instruction activity or participate in a flight instructor refresher course (FIRC) at least every 24 months. Failure to document and apply for recency will have the same effect as a CFI expiring.

Navigating the ATP Certification Process: A Pilot’s Guide

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To be eligible to serve as an airline crew member, pilots must possess an Airline Transport Pilot Certificate (ATP). To reach the ATP level, pilots now have the option of pursuing an unrestricted ATP subject to FAR Part 61 requirements or may choose to pursue a Restricted ATP (R-ATP) qualification by graduating from an approved, collegiate-based aviation program.

Pilot’s Guide to Part 107 Drone Operations

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The rule for operating unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) or drones under 55 pounds is found in 14 CFR Part 107, referred to as the Small UAS Rule. However, if you want to fly a drone for purely recreational purposes, you only need to abide by a basic set of operating requirements. If you are in doubt as to whether you are flying for recreation or commercial purpose, it is best to follow the guidelines of Part 107.

Pilot’s Guide to BasicMed

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BasicMed is an alternate way for pilots to fly without holding an FAA medical certificate as long as they meet certain requirements. To fly under BasicMed, pilots must print off a FAA Form 8700-2; BasicMed Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC) and get your physical exam with a state-licensed physician.
checkride

FAA publishes updated Airman Certification Standards – Here’s What You Should Know

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The ACS is a comprehensive presentation integrating the standards for what an applicant must know, consider, and do to demonstrate proficiency. In this latest update, effective May 31, 2024, revisions were made to the ACS as an outgrowth of public comment; however, there are no major substantive changes to the testing standards already in use or the conduct of the practical test.

Can you fly with inoperative instruments?

While the regulations generally require that all instruments and equipment installed aboard the aircraft be in working condition, it may be possible to operate an aircraft with a piece of equipment not working if it falls within the scope of FAR 91.213 or the aircraft is operating with a Minimum Equipment List.
Aircraft Engine - No cowling

Can a pilot perform maintenance on an aircraft?

Pilots are allowed to perform simple or minor maintenance on their aircraft – what the FAA refers to as preventive maintenance. Appendix A to Part 43 contains a list of tasks that meet the preventive maintenance definition.

When can a pilot share expenses with a passenger?

The types of expenses that can be shared are expressly stated in § 61.113(c) which are “fuel, oil, airport expenditures, or rental fees.” It’s also a requirement that the pilot not “pay less than the pro rata share.
Traffic Pattern Legs

FAA updates Advisory Circular for non-towered airport operations

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The AC notes that when entering the traffic pattern at an airport without an operating control tower, inbound pilots are expected to observe other aircraft already in the pattern and to conform to the traffic pattern in use. If there are no other aircraft present, the pilot should check traffic indicators.

Required certificates and documents and flying with inoperative equipment

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While the time-honored tradition of the walk-around is vitally important so is the preflight inside the cabin making sure the required documents are on board and that the instruments and equipment are in operable condition.