Two years go by quickly. A pilot who has been flying the same local trips flips open the logbook, finds the last flight review endorsement, and realizes the deadline is next month. Suddenly it’s time to brush up on regulations that haven’t come up since the checkride.
Under 14 CFR 61.56, you can’t act as pilot in command unless, within the preceding 24 calendar months, you’ve completed a flight review with an authorized instructor: at least one hour of ground training and one hour of flight training, covering the current general operating and flight rules of Part 91 and the maneuvers the instructor chooses. Many pilots still call it the biennial flight review.
ASA’s flight review guide is part of the publisher’s Oral Exam Guide series and is aimed at pilots getting ready for that review.
Quick answer: ASA’s guide to the biennial flight review (ASA-OEG-BFR9) is a study guide from ASA’s Oral Exam Guide series for pilots preparing for the flight review required every 24 calendar months, and for instructors who conduct them, available on Skyfarer and at Skyfarer Shop.
What the flight review requires
- How often. Within the preceding 24 calendar months to act as pilot in command (14 CFR 61.56).
- Minimum content. At least one hour of ground training and one hour of flight training with an authorized instructor.
- Ground topics. A review of the current general operating and flight rules of Part 91.
- Flight. The maneuvers and procedures the instructor decides you need to show safe exercise of your privileges.
- Alternatives. Passing a practical test for a new certificate or rating, or completing a phase of the FAA WINGS program, can also satisfy the requirement.
Getting ready
- Check your date. Find your last flight review endorsement and count 24 calendar months.
- Review Part 91 changes. Rules and airspace procedures change; read up before the ground session.
- Fly a practice session. Spend an hour on stalls, slow flight, and landings before the review.
- Talk to the instructor. Ask what they plan to cover so you can prepare.
Pilot tip: Treat the flight review as free coaching rather than a test. Ask the instructor to work on whatever you feel least sharp at, whether that’s crosswind landings or busy-airspace procedures.
Where to buy
ASA Guide to the Biennial Flight Review (ASA-OEG-BFR9) is sold by Skyfarer Shop. Find it on the Skyfarer marketplace or order directly from Skyfarer Shop. Either link shows the current price, shipping options and return terms.
Frequently asked questions
Is a flight review a checkride?
No. It’s a review with an authorized instructor. There’s no pass or fail grade, but the instructor endorses your logbook only when you’ve satisfactorily completed it.
How long is a flight review?
At least one hour of ground training and one hour of flight training.
Who can give one?
An authorized instructor, normally a CFI.
