Read more…(Part 61 Revision)
In addition to expanding the previous two-month validity of training in ATDs for instrument rated pilots, the new rules allow pilots to use any combination of aircraft and ATDs to accomplish the required flight experience.
A major step forward for commercial and CFI applicants will take effect August 27, when finding a complex airplane (more than 200 HP, retractable gear and flaps) will no longer be required for the 10 hours of training. The FAA’s revisions broaden the definition of technically advanced airplane. “This additional language is intended to provide flexibility by allowing the FAA to accommodate future technologies that do not necessarily meet the confines of the regulatory requirements for a TAA in FAR 61.129(j),” the FAA wrote in the final rule, which was published in the Federal Register June 27. The FAA had discontinued the requirement for a complex aircraft on practical tests in April.
Read more…(Commercial Full Stall)
“The stature of SAFE members as highly experienced CFIs, Master Instructors and FAA DPEs no doubt influenced the FAA’s decision to reinstate the option for a full stall demonstration on the Commercial practical test,” said SAFE Chair David St George. “Although we would have preferred that the requirement for Commercial applicants not be at the DPEs discretion, we’re still happy to have made a difference.”
Not all SAFE member instructors were delighted with the change. “The DPE can decide for him- or herself whether or not to have the applicant perform full stalls,” said SAFE member Rod Machado. “What was once a certification standard (i.e., full stall demonstration) is now a certification suggestion.” His full blog on the subject is on his web site.
We are amazingly fortunate to welcome new board members Cres Wise, and Veronica Cote. Hobie Tomlinson, (currently serving on the board as an appointee) Thank-you all for or voting and welcome to our new board members.
Read more…(ASI report)
The ASI report, titled Stall And Spin Accidents: Keep The Wings Flying, draws from a detailed analysis of 2,015 stall accidents between 2000 and 2014, and points out that the death rate (called the “lethality index”) in stall accidents is nearly 50 percent higher than other types of accidents.
ASI also makes available a direct link with details on accidents analyzed.
Read more…(Marijuana)
FAR 91.19(a) provides that ‘no person may operate a civil aircraft within the United States with knowledge that narcotic drugs, marijuana …are carried in the aircraft.’ “What they don’t realize is …this is the FAA’s gateway into the complex world of federal drug control laws. These laws represent an intricate weave of schedules and classifications covering the manufacture, importation, possession, and use of controlled substances,” said Schwartz.
“You should never forget that what may now be legal for non-pilots is still prohibited by both federal law and aviation regulation and could jeopardize your privileges,” he added.
Read more…(Illegal Charter)
The issue of so-called gray charter practices is gaining global attention. In addition to the NATA’s initiative, BACA-The Air Charter Association has teamed up with the European Business Aviation Association to fight illegal charter practices in Europe.
“Safety and fair competition are paramount to the continued success of the air charter industry. Illegal charter must be stamped-out, not only from a fairness standpoint, but also to ensure the safety of the traveling public,” Obitts said.
The first meeting of the illegal charter task force took place at NATA’s Annual Meeting and Aviation Business Conference in June.
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