Flight review
Section 61.56 defines the flight review, the ordinary 24-calendar-month lookback, and several alternatives and exceptions. The minimum ground and flight time is not a promise that every review will finish at the minimum; the instructor must be satisfied with the pilot's safe exercise of certificate privileges.
Passenger-carrying recency
Section 61.57(a) and (b) address takeoff-and-landing experience for carrying persons. The ordinary day rule and the night passenger rule have different conditions. Read the complete current section for the category, class, type, sole-manipulator, tailwheel, full-stop, and time-period details that apply.
Instrument recent experience
Instrument recent experience is another status. Section 61.57(c) specifies a six-calendar-month lookback and listed tasks. Section 61.57(d) controls the IPC path when the pilot does not meet the recent-experience framework. A current flight review does not by itself establish instrument currency.
Proficiency
Legal status is a floor. The aircraft, avionics, airspace, weather, time of day, recent practice, and personal condition can demand more. Use a flight review or WINGS activity to assess the actual flying you intend to do, not only the minimum box.
Put it into action
Flight Review Prep System
Walk into your flight review with the honest self-audit already done, so the hour sharpens you instead of surveying you.
See what’s insideEducational information only. Verify current regulations and FAA guidance, the approved documents for the aircraft or operation, and guidance from an appropriately qualified instructor before acting.