The FAA has updated the Aviation Weather Handbook as of 12-12-2024 Click here to get the updated version.

The FAA has updated the 8710 form with some changes for the recent CFI renewal process. Please use the updated form if you are doing any paper form processing from this point. It can be found at: https://www.faa.gov/forms/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1031493

The FAA has recently released a final rule that will: “require individuals with foreign addresses, and no U.S. physical address of record on file with the FAA, who hold or apply for certain certificates, ratings, or authorizations to designate a … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently provided guidance on changes that allow a DPE to provide services while complying with medical requirements under BasicMed. In a communication to DPEs, it was noted that: “The Federal Aviation Administration met a Congressional requirement by … Continue reading →

Today the FAA released a number of new advisory circulars that DPEs, pilots, and especially CFIs and CFI candidates might find worthy of note. Here are a few of them: AC 61-65J – Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors … Continue reading →

The FAA has updated the Aeronautical Charts Users Guide as of September 4, 2024. You can get it here – https://www.faa.gov/air_traffic/flight_info/aeronav/digital_products/aero_guide/

The FAA has issued an updated N8000.385 focused on Individual Designee Obligation to Report Arrests, Indictments, and Convictions. Designees are encouraged to be familiar with the content. It can be found at: https://drs.faa.gov/browse/excelExternalWindow/DRSDOCID103354644620240806223712.0001

The FAA published on April 1st, 2024 much-awaited updated Airman Certification Standards and Practical Test Standards for numerous certification tests. Applicants, CFIs, and DPEs are encouraged to become familiar with the updated and new documents for upcoming testing activities. The … Continue reading →

The FAA has issued Notice 8900.689 – In-Person Requirements and Use of Remote Technology for Administrative Airman Certification Functions This notice specifically addresses questions of useremote technology for the issuance of certification for Administrative Airman Certification Functions; allowing some issuance … Continue reading →

The FAA published an updated Advisory Circular on Use of Electronic Flight Bags on 02/23/2024. Click here to see the updated AC91-78A

The FAA has recently updated Advisory Circular (AC) 91-67A – Minimum Equipment Requirements for General Aviation Operations Under 14 CFR Part 91, § 91.213. The updated AC is effective 10/16/2023. Pilots, CFIs, and DPEs are encouraged to review the updated … Continue reading →

The FAA has updated the Aeronautical Chart User’s Guide effective as of November 30, 2023. Check out the updated gulde by clicking here.

The FAA has released the final and now effective order 8000.95C as s of 09/21/2023. DPEs are encouraged to review the policy and any changes as it relates to the work they conduct. Click here to see FAA Order 8000.95C. … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently issued an updated draft of FAA Order 8000.95B CHG1 for public review and comment. This order establishes policy for integrated designee management across the Office of Aerospace Medicine (AAM), Aircraft Certification Service (AIR), Flight Standards Service … Continue reading →

The FAA has updated the FAA-H-8083-28, Aviation Weather Handbook as of 12-21-2022. Click here to see the newest version.

The FAA has recently posted over 30 new ACS/PTS documents that will serve as updates to current documents, transitions from PTS for some documents, and new documents for new types of certification (primarily powered-lift aircraft). DPEs and flight training industry … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently released a memorandum regarding non-allowance of waiving of task items for applicants adding additional categories of certification during practical tests. It is expected when ACS/PTS documents are updated in the future that this may change, but … Continue reading →

The FAA is now including updated guidance on the conduct of power off 180 degree landings as provided in a response from AFS-810 on July 5, 2022 in DPE recurrence training. For those that are between cycles, this information may … Continue reading →

The FAA has released an updated FAA FAA Risk Management Handbook (FAA-H-8083-2A) as of June 2, 2022. Those engaged in the pilot training and/or testing process are encouraged to review the updated document. Click here to see the new FAA … Continue reading →

Dear Designees: On 02/28/2022 the Office of the Chief Council (AGC-240) issued a memorandum rescinding two legal interpretations pertaining to instrument training requirements under 14 CFR § 61.65. Specifically, the memorandum clarified the instrument approach procedures that may satisfy § … Continue reading →

Designees are encouraged to review the updated FAA Order 8000.95B that was published and signed recently. It can be found at: https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Order/Order_8000.95B.pdf

Changes to Instrument Rating Cross Country Approach Requirement Notice Number: NOTC2305 The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recently reviewed two legal interpretation and determined they were overly restrictive. The Glaser (2008) and Pratte (2012) legal interpretations focused on the requirements of … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently updated DMS to version 5.7. For more information about what is included in this release, click here.

The FAA has recently published a draft update to the order that governs much of the work that DPEs conduct in FAA Order 8000.95B. Much of the changes codify changes were allowed via deviation memorandum over the past year including … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently released a new Airplane Flying Handbook (FAA-H-8083-3C). DPEs, CFIs, and students should check it out in their training and testing efforts. Some of the updates in this version include adding information about the FAA Wings Program, … Continue reading →

FSANA (www.FSANA.com) is hosting the first annual symposium for the flight examiner community in Nashville, Tennessee, on Tuesday and Wednesday, October 26-27, 2021. Tuesday includes sessions beginning at 2:00 and an evening reception. Wednesday is packed with a full day … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently updated the Learning Statement Reference Codes document used in reviewing areas of deficiency on some FAA practical test reports. The most current version at this time is from 08-10-2021. Click Here to See the Updated Learning … Continue reading →

Did you know as a DPE who completes the AFS-640 DPE Recurrent Course you are eligible for FAA Wings credit? Most DPEs aren’t aware of this, yet. But the FAA staff down at AFS-640 have taken the time and made … Continue reading →

Recently the FAA issued a new edition of the FAA Aeronautical Chart Users Guide which became effective June 17, 2021. DPEs are encouraged to update their reference and use for testing to this not updated version. Check out the update … Continue reading →

On October 5, 2018, Congress enacted the FAA Reauthorization Act of 2018 (P.L 115-254). Section 319 (Designated Pilot Examiner Reforms) of P.L. 115-254 requires the Administrator assign to the Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee the task of reviewing all regulations and … Continue reading →

The Aviators Code Initiative (https://www.secureav.com/) has released the DPE Moral Code of Conduct. The release of the code indicates the following goals: “A professional code can help DPEs achieve new levels of expertise, and the DPEMCC is just such a … Continue reading →

Today the FAA has issued an extension of the authorization for FAA DPEs to continue operating through March 31, 2021in absence of oversight completion. Click here for a copy of this memorandum.

The FAA has released an updated FAA Order 8000.95A as of 12-7-2020 for DPEs to use and be aware of during their activities. Click here to see the updated version.

In September of 2020, the FAA released an updated FAA Knowledge Test Codes document. This document is used for codes on practical tests that are not under the ACS system yet. DPEs may still find need for this information on … Continue reading →

The FAA DPE Quarterly August 2020 is now available. Click here to see a copy.

On April 30, 2020, the FAA has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) to provide, in part, regulatory relief to persons who have been unable to comply with certain training, recent experience, testing and checking requirements due to the … Continue reading →

The FAA has issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) this past week that allows extension of many operating limitations about which DPEs should be aware as they conduct practical test and certification efforts in the upcoming months. This SFAR … Continue reading →

The FAA issued an email on April 24, 2020 that provided: “…guidance on the availability of certain recurrent designee training seminars that can now be completed virtually. This virtual training meets the training requirements in FAA Order 8000.95 and 8100.15. … Continue reading →

April 2, 2020 the FAA issued this following message for DPEs. ——————————— Attention DMS Users: The integration between IACRA and DMS is complete and will be released to production by COB today, April 2, 2020. This release enables the functionality … Continue reading →

The FAA recently issued guidance that allows for FAA medical certificates that expire while they are unable to be renewed to be used until June 20, 2020. This policy may be updated if a continued inability to secure FAA medicals … Continue reading →

The FAA issued a policy memorandum relating to integrations between policies 8000.95 and 8900.2 Speficially, the memorandum noted that: “Designated Pilot Examiners (DPE), to include Specialty Aircraft Examiners (SAE) and Administrative Pilot Examiners (Admin PE), are still required to use … Continue reading →

On March 24, 2020 the FAA issued a memorandum allowing DPEs to continue operation of their critical functions in the event that their designation qualifications lapse while FAA staff are unable to provide oversight and management functions. if you are … Continue reading →

The FAA provided the following this past week: “In the latest DMS release notes, we told you there would be new functionality in populating certain data fields.  Unfortunately, this data push did not happen as we expected.  Don’t worry; we’re … Continue reading →

Examiners are recommended to review the recent FAA Notice N8900.536 – Changes to the Airman Knowledge Test Report (AKTR). Click here to review the notice.

The Winter 2020 DPE Quarterly Newsletter produced by the FAA is available. Click Here to see it.

RELEASE OVERVIEW 4.1 – EXTERNAL USERS The below list contains the latest updates for the Designee Management System (DMS). These should take effect by COB January 16. If you have any questions, first reach out to your MS before contacting … Continue reading →

FYI RE Airman Knowledge Tests! From a recent communication to DPEs, but important also for all flight instructors, the following communication from the FAA was indicated: Important changes to Knowledge Test Reports! Effective January 13, 2020, any applicant that wishes … Continue reading →

The Fall 2019 DPE Quarterly Newsletter produced by the FAA is available. Click Here to see it.

Pilots for whom DPEs conduct practical tests aren’t just applicants, they are also customers. As a DPE, there are many things that can be done to help improve the practical test experience, allay some concerns, and enhance the professionalism of … Continue reading →

Incorporating changes for DMS and other authorizations, the FAA has released Change 5 for FAA Order 8000.95 that provides guidance for FAA Designated Pilot Examiners. Click Here to View or Download the Updated FAA Order 8900.95 Chg 5 DPEs are … Continue reading →

The FAA has provided some additional reference to help DPEs with use of the DMS system, specifically related to copy functionality for pre-approval requests. The information is as follows:

The FAA has provided notes for the version 3.7 update of DMS that may be helpful. They are below:  

The FAA has recently made some updates to DMS, highlights of changes that might be of interest or help to DPEs that were noted include the following: AFS • Removed the Auto Approval default to manual system functionality for pre-approvals … Continue reading →

The FAA’s DMS team issued the following notification to DPEs about DMS operations on June 28, 2019. If you missed it in your email, it is as follows: “The deployment of DPEs and SAEs into the DMS system was completed … Continue reading →

To help us as DPEs best utilize the DMS system, the FAA has recently released a “tip sheet”. If you missed it in your email, lost it, or otherwise need to reference it, you can find it here: DMS Tip … Continue reading →

DPEs can find the new updated ATP ACS now available effective June 2019 at: https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/media/atp_acs.pdf DPEs, CFIs, and applicants for ATP practical tests are advised to be familiar with this for testing purposes beginning at that time.

The Spring 2019 DPE Quarterly Newsletter produced by the FAA is available. Click Here to see it.

In recognition of the effects of the recent government shutdown, and to allow designees and their managing offices to catch up on paperwork documentation requirements, the FAA has issued policy memorandum allowing deviation from some expiration dates, specifically designees who have … Continue reading →

The has just sent the following communication with instructors for DPEs, Instructors, and Certificate holders: “Because of the lapse in federal funding and the subsequent furlough of employees at the Airman Registry Branch, you may be contacted by applicants whose … Continue reading →

A clarification has been issued by AFS-720 to help DPEs who encounter mismatches in middle name and middle initials when processing pilot certificates. The following note may be of help to some examiners when a discrepancy is encountered: AFS-720 now … Continue reading →

The FAA has issued a notice (N8900.490) highlighting the requirements for DPEs to destroy previously issued pilot certificates when issuing new ones. DPEs can review this notice to ensure their compliance with the policy by clicking here.

The FAA has issued a notice regarding introducion of the new Military Competency Non-Category Specific (MCN) aeronautical knowledge test and the new Commercial Pilot-Military Competence Airman Certification Standards (ACS), FAA-S-ACS-12. Examiners who conduct this activity should review the notice. It … Continue reading →

UPDATE: This order was canceled as of 10/1/2019 and incorporated into an updated FAA Order 8000.95 Chg 5 – This can be found at: https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/orders_notices/index.cfm/go/document.information/documentID/1023947 DPEs are advised to review the recent FAA Notice 8900.485 that has just been issued that … Continue reading →

As of 8-27-18, Version H of AC61.65 became active. If you didn’t see it before, you can get it here: https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC_61-65H.pdf

DPEs are advised that current versions of guidance for how they do their jobs at this time includes FAA Order 8900.2C and FAA Order 8000.95 with Changes 1-4. They can be obtained by clicking on the following links: FAA Order … Continue reading →

In case you missed the webinar, the FAA has provided the slides detailing highlights of changes to the ACS documents that are effective on June 11, 2018. Click here to review the slides.

The FAA has released updated ACS documents that will be effective for use on June 11, 2018. Examiners, instructors, and applicants are advised to review them and being using as appropriate. They may be found at: Commercial Pilot — Airplane … Continue reading →

Today the FAA published FAA Notice N8900.463 which specifically addresses a change in policy in the Commercial Pilot ACS and the CFI PTS documents to allow for completion of a practical test without requiring demonstration of a complex aircraft on … Continue reading →

The Flight School Association of North America (FSANA) today released its report from a survey of practical test pricing around the country completed in January 2018. The report of this data did show regional variations, some variations in pricing for … Continue reading →

The FAA has released the January 2018 DPE Quarterly publication by clicking here for your pdf copy.

The FAA has recently provided a presentation (slide deck in pdf format) to promote better understanding of the NOTAM procedures. Examiners and flight training provider are asked to help share the distribution of this presentation to enhance understanding in pilots … Continue reading →

An updated version of the 8710-1 form as of October 2017 is available by, Clicking Here.

In case you missed it, you can get a copy of the September 2017 DPE Quarterly publication by clicking here for your pdf copy.

The FAA has updated the Advisory Circular 61.65(G): Certification: Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors, effective August 25, 2017. This advisory circular (AC) provides guidance for pilot applicants, pilots, flight instructors, ground instructors, and examiners on the certification standards, knowledge … Continue reading →

A group of industry representatives has been working with the FAA over the past year to help improve the ability of flight training providers to secure practical flight tests for the customers they train. In some parts of the U.S., … Continue reading →

The FAA has issued an updated AC60-28B that covers FAA English Language Standard for an FAA Certificate Issued Under 14 CFR Parts 61, 63, 65, and 107. Click Here for the PDF.

The FAA has updated the FAA Learning Statement Reference Codes as of 6-12-17. Click Here for the PDF.

SAFO 17009, Airman Certification Standards (ACS): Slow Flight and Stalls, is now published. This SAFO cancels SAFO 16010 and advises the general aviation community of changes to the evaluation standards for the slow flight task and certain stall tasks in … Continue reading →

The FAA has sent to DPEs the summer (June) 2017 Pilot Examiner Quarterly publication. If you have missed it, click here to see the publication.

The FAA has released a course for DPEs on updated Private Pilot and Instrument Pilot ACS documents along with the newly released Commercial Pilot ACS. These documents become effective June 12, 2017 and DPEs should complete the course for familiarization … Continue reading →

The FAA has released the new ACS standards for the Commercial Pilot Certificate along with updates to the Instrument and Private Pilot ACS. These documents become effective on June 12, 2017. All parties involved with receiving and/or providing training and … Continue reading →

The FAA has issued a notice that describes information for DPEs to be aware of regarding Demonstrating Eligibility to Operate under BasicMed. This notice provides guidance for determining whether an airman is eligible to operate under BasicMed, in lieu of … Continue reading →

DPE Briefing is now available through the Designee Registration system. This training is encouraged for DPEs and is available at no cost. BasicMed provisions, under 14 CFR Part 68, will become effective May 1, 2017. To access the course, go … Continue reading →

This week, the FAA implemented one of the requests the industry group made and has issued a deviation from FAA Order 8900.2 that previously limited examiners from conducting any additional (either full or partial) practical tests in the day that … Continue reading →

An FAA/Industry group has been working to decrease delays in scheduling of practical tests that are being experienced in some regions recently. As this work continues, an effort to better understand where and why some of these delays are being experienced … Continue reading →

Tired of trying to look up FAA Knowledge Test Codes for your student or applicant in a pdf file or on a scrolling website? So was I. So, I created a website that does it for you with help from … Continue reading →

The FAA has released the March 2017 Quarterly DPE Newsletter. Like previous newsletters, this conveys information regarding the conduct and provision of practical tests that is important for examiners to review. Click Here to See the March 2017 DPE Quarterly … Continue reading →

The FAA has released a SAFO on the Use of Onboard or Installed Electronic Navigation Equipment on a Private Pilot Airplane Practical Test that serves to notify private pilot applicants, instructors, Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 … Continue reading →

Ever have a hard time determining the correct aircraft model, make, or code to enter into IACRA for an applicant’s practical test? I know I have! Some aircraft are much harder to find than others, so here is a little … Continue reading →

In a recent practical test, I ran into the IACRA challenge that the aircraft to be used for the test, in this case, a Flight Design CT, was not available in the list of aircraft for the applicant in IACRA. … Continue reading →

The most recent FAA Learning Statement Reference Guide was updated, you can access it here: FAA Learning Statement Reference Guide  9-19-2016

Designated Pilot Examiners have experienced discussion debating what was intended in the private pilot airman certification standards (ACS) for use when demonstrating use of an installed electronic navigation system and demonstrating use of installed navigation equipment function and displays under … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently sent out its Fall 2016 FAA DPE Quarterly communication. In the event that you did not get this in an email, you can get it here: Click Here for the Fall 2016 DPE Quarterly

The FAA has released a Safety Alert for Operators on the conduct of Slow Flight. This is directly related to changes in the Private Pilot ACS changes on the subject. To see the document, click here.

Examiners should note that the current FAA 8900.2B document was updated on August 30th and should now be considered the guiding document as the General Aviation Airman Designee Handbook. The version can be found at: http://fsims.faa.gov/PICDetail.aspx?docId=8900.2B

This email is intended to notify Designated Pilot Examiners that the Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) DPE Briefing is now available through the Designee Registration system. This training is available for all designees at no charge and is required for … Continue reading →

Rotorcraft PTS Standards for ATP and Flight Instructor were recently updated, below you will find the links to get the current documents. Airline Transport Pilot Practical Test Standards for Helicopter (FAA-S-8081-20 with Changes 1, 2, 3, and 4) (PDF) Flight … Continue reading →

The FAA has published an updated PTS for Flight Instructor Certification on June 16, 2016. The recent changes were to update document language to refer to Airman Certification Standards for applicable ratings and certificates a CFI would train applicants. Click … Continue reading →

ACS Focus Team Slow Flight and Other FAQs The ACS Focus Team has been asked many questions about the topic of slow flight. We have assembled a list of the questions with background and guidance on the issues for ASIs … Continue reading →

The FAA has published an “ACS Tips for Evaluators [DPEs]” that can help examiners as they develop their ACS based POAs for upcoming checkrides. The ACS Tips for Evaluators document can be found at: http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/media/acs_tips.pdf or Click Here for a … Continue reading →

The FAA has just published updated Private and Instrument ACS documents. Changes to the documents are minimal, but to ensure you are using the most current versions, please update your records. They can be found at http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/ Or Click Here … Continue reading →

The FAA has posted the official Private Pilot and Instrument Pilot ACS documents that are to be used effective June 15, 2016. These can be round at: http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/ You can also get the PDFs of the documents, here: ACS Private … Continue reading →

Designated Pilot Examiners that the Airman Certification Standards (ACS) DPE Briefing is now available through the Designee Registration system. This training is available for all designees at no charge and is required for those designees who conduct Private Pilot – … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently update the 8710-1 form. In the event you are using a paper form (in lieu of an IACRA processing), please use the updated form. Click Here for the Updated 8710-1 Form.

Changes to the issuance of the FAA student pilot certificate now allow CFIs to issue student pilot certificates. Click here for a pdf that is a step by step walk through of the process for the student and the CFI. … Continue reading →

From AFS-810: The FAA has published Change 1 to the Flight Instructor Practical Test Standards (PTS) for Rotorcraft (Helicopter and Gyroplane) on March 22, 2016.  The change is specific to the helicopter class rating and focuses on a change in … Continue reading →

The PTS for flight instructor rotorcraft/gyroplane was recently updated on 3-22-2016. Click here for the most recent version.

The FAA has just released a new advisory circular on Certification of Pilots and Flight and Ground Instructors to revise factors related to the recent changes in Student Pilot Certificates and how they are issued. Click here to see the … Continue reading →

Click here for a recent update presentation from the FAA on changes coming as we transition to using Airman Certification Standards. This is a good presentation for examiners to review as we work to make the transition.

The FAA recently updated the FAA Order 8900.2A to include Change 2. There are a few changes that may affect examiners acting as ACRs or in DPE related activities. Examiners are encouraged to review the current document and make sure … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently updated the guidance that it uses when conducting oversight of DPEs. Specifically updated were 8900.1,Vol.13,Ch5,Sec5 – Conduct a Special Emphasis Evaluation of a Designee and 8900.1,Vol.13,Ch6,Sec1 Inspect a Designated Pilot Examiner We strongly encourage examiners to … Continue reading →

The FAA has recently created a dedicated webpage for the new FAA Airman Certification Standards (ACS) that will become effective in the near future for training and testing pilots. This page can be viewed at http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/acs/ Included in the recent … Continue reading →

The FAA has released an updated FAA Learning Statement Reference Code effective October 12, 2105. Check it out here to use for reviewing applicant’s knowledge test failure items.

The FAA has released a revision of FAA Order 8900.2A with Change 1 that is not applicable. Examiners are advised to review this order with relation to their examiner authorizations, activities, privileges, and activities. Click here to view FAA Order … Continue reading →

The following correspondence was sent to examiners, if you happened to miss the email, please note: “Please be advised that a conflict with FAR 61.23 and Order 8900.2A was recently discovered concerning the requirement of a CFI holding a medical … Continue reading →

The FAA has updated the Learning Statement Reference Code Guide as of 7-17-15. Please update what you are using when you review applicant’s knowledge test deficiencies. Click here for the new document.

For your reference, you will find below the 2015 DPE Training Slides from the in person training. Click Here for the file.

For anyone’s study, here are the 2015 DPE Recurrent Training Files from the online training for download (click to download or view): Lesson 1 – Part 61_07 02 2013 Lesson 2 – PTS_On-line_07 03 2013 Lesson 3 – 8900.2, Designee … Continue reading →

Many DPEs have already received Gold Seal Flight Instructor certificates at some point in their career, but if they have not, it is possible to have this issued based on examiner activity. If an examiner has conducted more than 20 … Continue reading →

Background: Previous FAA Orders (FAA Order 8710.3) stated that DPEs are required to maintain a full-time flying position, outside of testing. It was always the intent to delegate our pilot certifications to highly qualified and respected aviation professionals, actively engaged … Continue reading →

The FAA has published a new 8900.2A order that includes guidance for examiners. The document can be viewed at: http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgOrders.nsf/0/dd0ea7d9d5c40caa86257e3c0065887a/$FILE/8900.2A.pdf

The CFI Practical Test Standards were updated being posted on January 15, 2015. It is available at https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/test_standards/ or in the documents section of this website.

In the upcoming future the FAA plans to replace Practical Test Standards (PTS) with a new Airman Certification Standards (ACS). This will be important for examiner to be familiar with in order to properly administer practical tests. Want to get … Continue reading →

The pdf (paper) version of the FAA 8710 application form was updated on 12-31-2014. Make sure if you are signing students off or processing paper form applications that the current form is being used. The new form can be found … Continue reading →

A recent interpretation of FAA Order 8900.2 has indicated that examiners must meet the “initial” DPE authorization requirements each year (300 hours in each class of aircraft). An upcoming revision of the 8900.2 to a version 8900.2a proposes reduction of … Continue reading →

The FAA has opened for public comment changes being made to the FAA Order 8900.2A (the General Aviation Airman Designee Handbook). I strongly encourage DPEs to review the proposed changes and bring up any concerns. Comments are due by 10/31/2014. … Continue reading →

The FAA released (on July 2) the ATP PTS that will be effective on August 1, 2014 for when new regulations for requirements for ATP certificates become effective. Click here to download the document.

Updates to the CFI Instrument and Sport Pilot PTS documents have been made. The Sport Pilot PTS documents were updated on 5/2/14. The CFI Instrument PTS was updated on 4/18/14. Click Here for the FAA PTS Page Each document has … Continue reading →

August 1, 2014 new ATP requirements will take effect. These changes are the result of Congressional action, FAA regulations updates, and industry collaboration to meet training standards in response to accidents and safety concerns identified over the past decade. Whether … Continue reading →

Be sure to use the most recent FAA Learning Statement Reference Code Guide. It was recently updated on Feb. 10, 2014. Click Here to get the document.

A new version of the Private Pilot PTS has been issued. Visit http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/test_standards/ for the most current version or visit the documents section of this website to also gain access to its download.

Commercial Practical Tests can only use aircraft for which the certificate/rating is sought.  Using a Multi-engine as a complex for testing purposes is no longer acceptable. For more information, Click Here to view the Legal Interpretation.

New FAA Knowledge Test Supplements become active Feb 10, 2014. Click Here to see the list: http://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/test_questions/media/akts_listing.pdf

The Grand Rapids FSDO has implemented a new website to help expedite the scheduling process for CFI checkrides. Visit http://www.faa.gov/about/office_org/field_offices/fsdo/grr/local_more/CFI/CFI_exam/ for scheduling. Applicants an instructors are recommended to use this website when scheduling instead of calling the office directly. Once … Continue reading →

Most examiners are aware that in an effort to obtain feedback from applicants about DPE practical test procedures, compliance with required regulations and guidance, and overall examiner quality, FSDO staff have been tasked with surveying a limited number of applicants … Continue reading →

The FAA recently released an updated FAA Airman Knowledge Testing Supplement (for use in conjunction with FAA Knowledge Tests) that covers the material for Sport Pilot, Recreational Pilot, and Private Pilot questions. Click Here for the updated document.

The Airman Testing Standards Branch of the FAA’s Regulatory Support Division launched a new web page that streamlines the process of getting information regarding airman testing. Some of the site’s features include: A “What’s New and Upcoming in Airman Testing” … Continue reading →

We previously posted that IACRA was not compatible with Internet Explorer version 11 (IE11), which remains true, but there is a workaround that allows it to work.

With a recent update, Microsoft upgraded to Internet Explorer version 11. The most recent version that is officially supported by IACRA at this time is Internet Explorer version 9 (Although it does appear that IEv10 does work). At this time … Continue reading →

The ATP Practical Tests Standards saw minor changes in an update that published 10-22-13. Click here for the updated version.

Click here for the entire AOPA story.

We all are hoping that the government shutdown will be over soon, but in the mean time, a few things that are important for instructors and examiners to know: FAA Knowlege Tests Halted – FAA knowledge test providers have been … Continue reading →

The FAA IACRA page notes that there will be an: “IACRA OutageThe FAA data center hosting IACRA will undergo an infrastructure upgrade starting at 6 PM Central Time September 13th, lasting through September 15th. IACRA will be unavailable during that … Continue reading →

Updated documents are available on the ATP, Commercial, Private, and Instrument PTS. Click the following for the documents: Updated ATP PTS (with Change 5) Updated Commercial PTS Errata Sheet (July 10, 2013) Updated Private PTS (with Change 4) Updated Instrument … Continue reading →

Click here for the most recent update of the FAA Learning Statement Reference Guide. This was last update on June 17, 2013.

Just released today…a new 8710-1 form.  I know most of us use IACRA, but in case you have to use paper, here is the new form. http://www.faa.gov/documentlibrary/media/form/faa8710-1.pdf

For anyone’s study, here are the 2013 DPE Recurrent Training Files for dowload (click to download or view): Lesson 1 Recurrent DPE Lesson 2 Recurrent DPE Lesson 3 Recurrent DPE Lesson 4 Recurrent DPE Lesson 5 Recurrent DPE Lesson 6 … Continue reading →

It has been brought to the attention of this group that some FSDOs have been notified by their region that examiners must meet the INITIAL DPE EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS every year or a waiver will be required for them to keep … Continue reading →

Note that the FAA Learning Statement Reference Code document was updated on February 11, 2013. Click Here for the document.

Recent PTS Changes: 5/6/13 Private Pilot Practical Test Standards for Rotorcraft (Helicopter, Gyroplane) (FAA-S-8081-15A with Change 1) 5/3/13 Flight Instructor Instrument Practical Test Standards for Airplane and Helicopter (FAA-S-8081-9D with change 1)

http://flighttraining.aopa.org/fsb/news/130507scammers-target-flight-schools-cfis.html?WT.mc_id=20130507fbonews&WT.mc_sect=nws

The following represents a survey of average costs for practical tests administered by FAA Designated Pilot Examiners in the Grand Rapids, Michigan FSDO beginning June 1, 2013. Private Pilot – Airplane SEL                 … Continue reading →

Where to Find Updates – https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/test_standards/#Pilots (as of 4/29/13)

On February 12, 2013 the FAASTeam released a Notice about the SEED program for DPE feedback.  The notice is below and can also be found at: http://www.faasafety.gov/spans/noticeView.aspx?nid=4552. Examiners should know that this program is a part of an FAA effort … Continue reading →