Private Pilot Eligibility Requirements
- At least 17 years old
- Read + write in English
- 3rd Class Medical
- Ground and Flight Endorsements
- Aeronautical Experience Requirements
- Pass the Knowledge and Practical Tests
Private Pilot Privileges and Limitations
- PIC for business if not carrying passengers for compensation or hire
- May not pay less than Pro Rata Share (fuel, oil, airport expenses, or rental fees)
- PIC for charity/nonprofit
- Can be reimbursed for search and location for local, state, or federal organizations
- PIC to demonstrate to a respective buyer if you have >200 hours of flight time
- PIC for production flight test in light-sport aircraft
Can friends pay for your annual inspection?
No. The Pro Rata Share clause only affects operating expenses not maintenance.
What does a PILOT need on them to legally fly?
- Pilot Certificate
- Photo ID
- Medical Certificate
High-Performance Airplane definition
> 200 horsepower
What do you need to be PIC of a High-Performance Airplane?
- Proficient in ops and systems of that airplane from instructor/simulator
- Endorsement from instructor who certifies proficiency
What other types of aircraft require specific training and endorsements?
- High Altitude Airplane: >25,000 ft
2. Tailwheel Airplane
Complex Airplane Definition
- Retractable landing gear
- Flaps
- Controllable Pitch Propeller
What do you need to be PIC of a Complex Airplane
- Found proficient in the ops and systems by instructor
2. Endorsement in logbook certifying proficiency
Define Category, Class, and Type
Category: Broadest classification of aircraft. E.g. airplane, rotorcraft, glider, etc.
Class: More specific, having similar op. characteristics: E.g. single engine land, multi-engine sea, etc.
Type: a specific make and model. E.g. C-150, DC-9, etc.
Requirements to remain current as a private pilot
- Within preceding 24 months, flight review + endorsement by flight instructor
- To carry passengers: preceding 90 days:
3 Takeoffs and landings solo
if tailwheel: landings must be to full stop
if operating at night, then they have to be done at night
all above in same category, class, and type
How long can a pilot exercise privileges without updating their address if they moved?
30 days
What counts as Second in Command (SIC) time?
- Occupies a crewmember station on a plane that requires more than on pilot
- Holds the category, class, and instrument rating
How long is a 3rd class medical valid for?
60 calendar months if <40 years old
24 calendar months if >40 years old
Should you fly after having taken allergy meds?
Not unless an Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) has approved it
Where are the conditions that may disqualify you from getting a medical certificate?
Standards: part 67
Requirements: part 61
What requirements must be met to fly under BasicMed?
- Driver’s License
- Hold or have held a medical certificate after July 14, 2016
- Answer the health questions on the Comprehensive Medical Examination Checklist (CMEC)
- Physical examination by a State-licensed physician and have them complete the CMEC
- Take a BasicMed online medical education course. (Keep the document)
What privileges and limitations apply when flying under BasicMed?
- No more than 5 passengers or in a plane that can hold that many
- Max takeoff weight of not more than 6,000 lbs.
- 250 kts or less, at or below 18,000 feet MSL
- May not fly for compensation or hire
What is required to maintian BasicMed privileges?
- Signed CMEC that shows physical examination was within 48 calendar months
- Being treated for medical conditions that may affect safety of flight
- Course completion certificate from within the past 24 calendar months
