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Preparing for the FAA Practical Test (Check Ride)
Agenda
ResponsibilityResourcesPTSCFR 14 part 61FAA 8710-1Checkride TruismsCheckride PersonaSummary
Who is Responsible ?
Shared Responsibility between CFIG and Student– CFIG ensures training is
completed and loggedPilot in Command, § 91.3Preflight Preparation, § 91.103
CRM/ADM Resources?
FAA Practical Test Standard, FAA-S-8081 22 April 1999Your Friendly CFIGYour Friendly A&P CFR 14 Parts 61 & 91Your Personal Flying LibraryAfter Action ReportsInternet
Practical Test Standard (PTS)
FAA S-8081-22 April 1999
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PTS Continued
PTS Applicant Check List
Use the Check List
Sample PTS Task
PTS Special Emphasis Items
1999 Private Pilot PTS
2006 Commercial and CFI PTS
CFR 14 Part 61.103
To be eligible for a private pilot certificate, a person must:Be at least 16 years of agePass the required knowledge test Receive flight training in §61.107(b)(6) and receive a logbook endorsement Pass a practical test
CFR 14 Part 61.107§ 61.107 Flight proficiency.(a) General. A person who applies for a private pilot certificate must receive and log ground and flight training from an authorized instructor on the areas of operation of this section that apply to the aircraft category and class rating sought.
CFR 14 Part 61.107(b)(6)(i) Preflight preparation;(ii) Preflight procedures;(iii) Airport and gliderport operations;(iv) Launches and landings;(v) Performance speeds;(vi) Soaring techniques;(vii) Performance maneuvers;(viii) Navigation;(ix) Slow flight and stalls;(x) Emergency operations; and(xi) Postflight procedures.
PTS
Areas
of
Operation
CFR 14 Part 61.109
10 hours of flight time in a glider in the areas of operation listed in §61.107(b)(6) –20 flights in a glider–3 training flights in a glider within the
60-day period preceding the test–2 hours of solo flight time in a glider
with not less than 10 launches and landings
CFR 14 Part 61.109 Cont.
Applicant has logged at least 40 hours in a heavier-than-air aircraft:3 hours of flight time in a glider in the areas of operation listed in §61.107(b)(6) –10 solo flights in a glider–3 training flights in a glider within the
60-day period preceding the test.
FAA 8710-1
Get Current form from www.faa.gov – 07/31/2007 is Current versionFollow directions implicitly!
Checkride TruismsInstructors sign students off for a checkride when they demonstrate the proficiency to pass
The Checkride is all about answering the question, is this applicant ready to safely act as a Pilot in Command of a Glider ?– Demonstrate your “Command Ability” Never
allow yourself not to be in command or responsible
Checkride Truisms Continued
Examiners want you to pass and know the checkride is stressful, don’t panic if:– You can’t answer a question– You perform a maneuver out of standard
• Simply say, “may I look that one up” or “can I do that again”
• Bring your Glider Library to assist– The examiner starts to teach or demonstrate
• listen, watch, and learn
Checkride Truisms Continued
Oral exams are typically first, be well prepared and it lessens the stress of flyingShow up on Checkride day early with:– Current weather forecast, METAR, TAF, etc. – Weight and Balance calculated for your aircraft
with your and the examiner’s weights– Aircraft Logs highlighting required inspections
• Brief examiner on each area emphasizing your go no go decision
Checkride Truisms Continued
Know Emergency Procedures and your aircraft limitations. Show up dressed correctly for the Occasion– White shirts are great, they can’t see you
sweat– Look like a Glider pilot
All of PGC Students are “nervous” going into the Checkride and end up saying “was that all there is ?”
Checkride Truisms Continued
The Checkride is SERIOUS, you are going to receive the privilege to operate in the same airspace and in close proximity to Airliners, Military, and General Aviation aircraft– Your preparation should equal your
responsibility– However, always smile ☺ Flying is fun
NEVER lose the joy
Checkride Persona
Sincere Interest in learningHumilityOptimismSafety MindedConfident but not Cocky
-Is this person ready to be a safe PIC ?
Thoughts by Rod Machado AOPA ASF CFI Update Winter 2007
Summary
Once you have the sign off, you have demonstrated the ability to act as
Pilot in Command and proficiency to Pass the FAA Checkride!
Be confident, humble, and safety oriented. Take Command and go forth and Pass your Checkride!
YOU CAN DO IT !