CFI Expiration Date and Changes.
Outline:
Major Changes Overview
CFI Certificate Expiration Removed: Certificates no longer expire.
Recency of Experience: Replaces expiration date requirements.
Training Requirements for New CFIs: Adjusted to meet new standards.
Codification of SFAR 100-2: Applies to pilots outside the U.S., especially military personnel.
Removal of CFI Certificate Expiration Date
No Expiration: As of December 1, 2024, flight instructor certificates will no longer expire.
Recency of Experience: CFIs must now meet recency requirements rather than renew their certificate.
IACRA Event: Some recency checks may require ASI (Aviation Safety Inspector) or DPE (Designated Pilot Examiner) involvement through the IACRA system.
FIRC Updates: Instructors must update their certificate through FIRC (Flight Instructor Refresher Course) using IACRA.
Additional Ratings: For additional instructor ratings, updates must be done via IACRA.
Experience Requirements: Instructors must demonstrate proficiency with at least 5 students who achieve an 80% first-time pass rate.
Grace Period for Recency of Experience
3-Month Grace Period: CFIs have three months to reinstate their status through a FIRC after their recency lapses.
After Grace Period: A checkride is required to reinstate the certificate.
Limitations: CFIs may not exercise their certificate during the grace period.
Endorsements
Current Method Unchanged: Endorsements must still include date, signature, CFI number, and expiration date (valid until March 2027).
Recency of Experience Tracking: Endorsements will track either expiration or recency compliance.
Training Requirements for First-Time Instructor Applicants
Flight Time and Pass Rate: Applicants must have 200 hours of instruction given and recommended at least 5 applicants with an 80% first-time pass rate.
Enhanced Qualification Program (FIEQTP): Part 141 or 142 schools may offer this program without time-based or pass-rate requirements.
Ground and Flight Instruction: Minimum of 25 hours of ground and 10 hours of flight instruction, including up to 5 hours in an AATD (Advanced Aviation Training Device).
FAA Approval: All training must be FAA-approved under the new Appendix K of Part 141.
SFAR 100-2 Modifications
Applies to Military and Civilian Pilots Outside the U.S.: Those on active duty or supporting missions outside the U.S. have 6 months to meet recency requirements upon their return.
Regulation 61.40: Allows for recency adjustments for military or civilian pilots returning from overseas missions.
Associated Resources
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