Certificates & Documents

Prior to flying, we must ensure that not only we, but the aircraft is ready to go.

Training Requirements
For Recreational, Private, and Commercial Pilots, eligibility and experience requirements are found in Part 61 of the FARs.  Each certificate has its own privileges and limitations - also found in Part 61.

Medical Certificates
1st Class Medical - required for ATP certificate operations, expires at the end of the 6th month after exam.
2nd Class Medical - required for Commercial certificate operations, expires at end of 12th month after exam.
3rd Class Medical - required for Private Pilot operations.  Expires at end of 60th month (if under 40), or at end of 24th month if person is over 40.

Flight Instructors  - though paid and pilots (and would therefore assume a commercial operation), require only a 3rd class medical.

Recency of Experience
Every 24 months, a pilot must submit to a Flight Review to maintain their certificate privileges.  A practical test for another certificate may substitute for this review.

Carriage of Passengers - is only allowed if within the previous 90 days, the pilot has done 3 takeoffs and 3 landings in the same category and class of aircraft (and type if required).  If carrying passengers at night, the pilot must have (within the previous 90 days), done 3 takeoffs and 3 landings to a full stop.  The same applies to carriage of passengers in a tailwheel aircraft.

Required Entries in Logbook
Only required entries are those that are needed to demonstrate recency of experience for a certificate or rating, and flight review.

The following must be logged . . .
General - Date, Flight Time, and Departure/Arrival info.
Type of Experience/Training - Solo, PIC, SIC, flight/ground training, or Flight Simulator
Conditions - Day/Night, actual or simulated instrument, or flight simulator.

There are 4 documents a pilot must have in order to fly.

•Pilot Certificate
•Medical Certificate
•Photo ID
•Logbook Endorsements

See Airworthiness for certificates and documents required for aircraft.