[Federal Register Volume 63, Number 78 (Thursday, April 23, 1998)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 20282-20290]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 98-10793]



[[Page 20281]]

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Part IV





Department of Transportation





_______________________________________________________________________



Federal Aviation Administration



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14 CFR Parts 61 and 141



Pilot, Flight Instructor, Ground Instructor, and Pilot School 
Certification Rules: Clarifying Amendments and Other Editorial Changes; 
Final Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 63, No. 78 / Thursday, April 23, 1998 / Rules 
and Regulations  

[[Page 20282]]



DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Parts 61 and 141

[Docket No. 25910; Amendment Nos. 61-104 and 141-10]
RIN 2120-AE71


Pilot, Flight Instructor, Ground Instructor, and Pilot School 
Certification Rules; Clarifying Amendments and Other Editorial Changes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Final rule.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This amendment makes minor revisions to clarify regulations 
regarding the certification, training, and experience requirements for 
pilots, flight instructors, and ground instructors, and the 
certification requirements for pilot schools approved by the FAA.

EFFECTIVE DATE: This rule is effective May 26, 1998.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John Lynch, Certification Branch, AFS-
840, General Aviation and Commercial Division, Flight Standards 
Service, FAA, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591; 
telephone (202) 267-3844.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Availability of Final Rule

    Any person may obtain a copy of this final rule by submitting a 
request to the Federal Aviation Administration, Office of Rulemaking, 
Attn: ARM-1, 800 Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591, or by 
calling (202) 267-9680. Communications must identify the amendment 
number or docket number of this final rule.
    Using a modem and suitable communications software, an electronic 
copy of this document may be downloaded from the FAA regulations 
section of the FedWorld electronic bulletin board service (telephone: 
(703) 321-3339) or the Federal Register's electronic bulletin board 
service (telephone: (202) 512-1661).
    Internet users may reach the FAA's web page at http://www.faa.gov, 
or the Federal Register's web page at http://www.access.gpo.gov/
su__docs for access to recently published rulemaking documents.

Small Business Inquiries

    The Small Business Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act of 1996 
(SBREFA) requires the FAA to report inquiries from small entities 
concerning information on, and advice about, compliance with statutes 
and regulations within the FAA's jurisdiction, including interpretation 
and application of the law to specific sets of facts supplied by a 
small entity.
    If you are a small entity and have a question, contact your local 
FAA official. If you do not know how to contact your local FAA 
official, you may contact Charlene Brown, Program Analyst Staff, Office 
of Rulemaking, ARM-27, Federal Aviation Administration, 800 
Independence Avenue SW., Washington, DC 20591, 1-888-551-1594. Internet 
users can find additional information on SBREFA in the ``Quick Jump'' 
section of the FAA's web page at http://www.faa.gov and may send 
electronic inquiries to the following Internet address: 9-AWA-
[email protected].

Background

    On April 4, 1997, the FAA published a final rule titled ``Pilot, 
Flight Instructor, Ground Instructor, and Pilot School Certification 
Rules'' (62 FR 16220). That final rule, which became effective on 
August 4, 1997, amended the certification, training, and experience 
requirements for pilots, flight instructors, and ground instructors, 
and the certification requirements for pilot schools approved by the 
FAA. The FAA published corrections to that final rule on July 30, 1997 
(62 FR 40888). This amendment makes minor revisions to clarify certain 
provisions in that final rule. In addition, this amendment includes 
provisions that were inadvertently omitted from the final rule.

Discussion of Amendment

Terminology

    To provide for consistency throughout parts 61 and 141, the phrases 
``performing the functions of pilot in command (PIC)'' and ``performing 
the functions and duties of PIC'' have been replaced with the phrase 
``performing the duties of PIC.'' It was not the intent of the FAA to 
distinguish between the words ``functions'' and ``duties'' and this 
revision has been made to avoid any ambiguity concerning the meaning of 
these terms. This revision is not discussed in the following section-
by-section analysis.
Part 61
    Section 61.2  Certification of foreign pilots, flight instructors, 
and ground instructors. As adopted in the final rule, Sec. 61.2 
provides that, except under certain conditions, a person who is not a 
citizen or resident alien of the United States may not be issued an 
airman certificate unless that person passes the appropriate knowledge 
or practical test in the United States. The FAA did not previously 
require a person who is not a citizen or resident alien of the United 
States to take the knowledge test in the United States; that 
requirement was inadvertently included in the provisions of Sec. 61.2. 
Therefore, the references to the knowledge test have been removed from 
Sec. 61.2. However, the FAA notes that a person who is not a citizen or 
resident alien of the United States must take a knowledge test for a 
certificate or rating when otherwise required in part 61, although the 
test may be taken outside the United States.
    Section 61.31  Type rating requirements, additional training, and 
authorization requirements. The FAA has revised the heading for 
Sec. 61.31(h) to read ``Additional aircraft type-specific training'' 
rather than ``Additional training required by the aircraft's type 
certificate.'' This new heading more accurately reflects the content of 
Sec. 61.31(h), which requires additional training and an endorsement 
from an authorized instructor before a person may serve as PIC of an 
aircraft that the Administrator has determined requires additional 
type-specific training. The introductory text of Sec. 61.31(i)(1) also 
has been revised to correct a typographical error.
    Section 61.35  Knowledge test: Prerequisites and passing grades. 
Section 61.35(a)(1) requires that an applicant for a knowledge test 
receive an endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that 
the applicant has accomplished a ground-training or home-study course 
for the certificate or rating sought and is prepared for the knowledge 
test. The FAA notes that not all applicants for a certificate or rating 
are required to have such an endorsement before taking a knowledge 
test. Sections 61.153 and 61.165 do not require an applicant for an 
airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate or an additional aircraft 
category or class rating on an ATP certificate to have such an 
endorsement. In addition, an applicant for a ground instructor 
certificate or rating under Sec. 61.213 need not obtain an endorsement 
from an authorized instructor before taking the knowledge test. 
Therefore, Sec. 61.35 has been revised to require an endorsement only 
if otherwise required in part 61.
    Section 61.39  Prerequisites for practical tests. Section 61.39 has 
been revised to reflect that not all applicants for a practical test 
are required to have an endorsement from an authorized instructor to be 
eligible to take the

[[Page 20283]]

practical test. Sections 61.153 and 61.165 do not require an applicant 
for an ATP certificate or an additional aircraft category or class 
rating on an ATP certificate to have such an endorsement. Therefore, 
Sec. 61.39(a)(6) has been revised accordingly.
    Section 61.45  Practical tests: Required aircraft and equipment. In 
the correction to the final rule, the FAA added the language ``Unless 
otherwise authorized by the Administrator'' to the introductory 
paragraph of Sec. 61.45(b). This language was added to permit an 
applicant to obtain authorization from the Administrator to take the 
practical test in an aircraft whose operating characteristics preclude 
a pilot from demonstrating all of the maneuvers required to be 
performed during the practical test. For example, the Cessna (C) 336 
and 337 series airplanes do not have a published minimum control speed 
with critical engine inoperative(VMC) and thus an applicant 
for an airplane multiengine rating would not be able to perform the 
VMC demonstration task if a C-336/337 series airplane is 
used to take the practical test. As noted in the correction to the 
final rule, a similar provision was included in Sec. 61.13(c) before 
the adoption of the final rule but was inadvertently omitted when the 
provisions of that paragraph were incorporated into Sec. 61.45(b).
    Upon further review, the FAA has determined that instead of relying 
on the phrase ``Unless otherwise authorized by the Administrator,'' 
Sec. 61.45(b) should be revised to explicitly provide for the use of 
such aircraft. Therefore, Sec. 61.45(b) has been revised to provide 
that an applicant for a certificate or rating may use an aircraft whose 
operating characteristics preclude the applicant from performing all of 
the tasks required for the practical test. The FAA notes that before 
the adoption of the final rule, Sec. 61.13(c) also provided for the 
placement of a limitation on an applicant's certificate or rating if 
such an aircraft is used by an applicant. This provision was 
inadvertently omitted from the previous correction of Sec. 61.45(b). 
Therefore, Sec. 61.45(b) now provides that the applicant's certificate 
or rating will be issued with an appropriate limitation if an aircraft 
whose operating characteristics preclude demonstration of all the tasks 
required for a practical test.
    Section 61.51  Pilot logbooks. Section 61.51(e)(1)(i) allows a 
recreational, private, or commercial pilot to log PIC time for that 
flight time during which the pilot is the sole manipulator of the 
controls of an aircraft for which the pilot is rated. However, this 
provision does not permit those pilots to log PIC time if the pilot is 
the sole occupant of an aircraft but is not rated in that aircraft. For 
example, a commercial pilot with a single-engine rating who is training 
for a multiengine rating is not currently permitted to log PIC time for 
that flight time during which the pilot is the sole occupant of a 
multiengine aircraft. The provision to allow a recreational, private, 
or commercial pilot to log PIC time for that flight time during which 
the pilot is the sole occupant of the aircraft, which was included in 
Sec. 61.51 before the adoption of the final rule, was inadvertently 
omitted from the final rule language. This was not the intent of the 
FAA. Therefore, the FAA has revised Sec. 61.51(e)(1) to permit a 
recreational, private, or commercial pilot to log PIC time for that 
flight time during which the pilot is the sole occupant of the 
aircraft.
    Section 61.56  Flight review. Section 61.56 provides that a person 
may act as PIC of an aircraft only if that person has accomplished a 
biennial flight review (BFR). Because Sec. 61.51 now permits student 
pilots, under certain circumstances, to log PIC flight time, there has 
been some concern as to whether the BFR requirement applies to student 
pilots. Before the adoption of the final rule, a student pilot was 
required to log solo flight time, rather than PIC flight time, when 
that student pilot was the sole occupant of the aircraft or when that 
student pilot was acting as PIC of an airship requiring more than one 
flight crewmember. To avoid confusion, the FAA has revised Sec. 61.56 
to except a student pilot from the BFR requirement if that student 
pilot is undergoing training for a certificate and has a current solo 
flight endorsement as required under Sec. 61.87 of this part.
    Section 61.63  Additional aircraft ratings (other than on an 
airline transport pilot certificate). In the corrections to the final 
rule, the FAA revised Sec. 61.63(d)(5) to require that the practical 
test for an additional type rating (other than on an ATP certificate) 
be performed in actual or simulated instrument conditions rather than 
under instrument flight rules (IFR). Section 61.63(d)(5) provides that 
if the practical test is not performed under those conditions because 
under the aircraft's type certificate the aircraft is incapable of 
operating under IFR, the type rating is issued with a ``VFR only'' 
limitation. That paragraph provides for lifting the limitation for that 
aircraft type if the person subsequently passes the practical test 
``under IFR.'' The FAA has determined that this later provision should 
be revised in a manner consistent with the previous correction to 
provide that the ``VFR only'' limitation be lifted for that aircraft 
type after the person passes the practical test ``in actual or 
simulated instrument conditions.''
    In addition, Sec. 61.63(f)(10) has been revised to clarify that an 
applicant for an additional rating in a helicopter who meets only the 
requirements of Sec. 61.63(f)(9)(ii) will be issued the additional 
rating with a limitation. The previous rule language referenced 
Sec. 61.63(f)(9), rather than Sec. 61.63(f)(9)(ii), which was 
incorrect. Similarly, Sec. 61.63(g)(10) has been revised to reference 
Sec. 61.63(g)(9)(ii), rather than Sec. 61.63(g)(9).
    Section 61.109  Aeronautical experience. Section 61.109(f) has been 
revised to clarify when the aeronautical experience requirements for 
obtaining a private pilot certificate with a glider category rating 
must be accomplished with an authorized instructor and when those 
requirements must be accomplished in solo flight. To obtain a private 
pilot certificate with a glider category rating, Sec. 61.109(f) 
requires an applicant to accomplish three training flights in a glider. 
Unlike the term ``flight training,'' which is defined in 
Sec. 61.1(b)(6) as training, other than ground training, received from 
an authorized instructor in flight in an aircraft, the term ``training 
flight'' is not defined. Therefore, the FAA has added the phrase ``with 
an authorized instructor'' to clarify when training flights are to be 
accomplished with an authorized instructor.
    In addition, the FAA has revised Sec. 61.109(f)(1) to clarify that 
the 20 flights and 2 hours of solo flight time in a glider that are 
required by paragraphs (f)(1)(i) and (f)(1)(ii) may be used to meet the 
10 hours of flight time specified in the introductory language of 
paragraph (f)(1). In addition, the three training flights with an 
authorized instructor required in paragraph (f)(1)(i) may be used to 
meet the 20 flights also required in that paragraph.
    The introductory paragraph of Sec. 61.109(f)(2) also has been 
revised to clarify that the 10 solo flights and 3 training flights with 
an authorized instructor in a glider required by paragraphs (f)(2)(i) 
and (f)(2)(ii) may be used to meet the 3 hours of flight time specified 
in the introductory language of paragraph (f)(2).
    Section 61.109(g)(2) has been revised to clarify the type of 
instrument training required for a private pilot certificate with an 
airship rating. As noted in the correction to the final rule, the

[[Page 20284]]

instrument training for a private pilot certificate requires training 
only on basic maneuvers such as straight and level flight, constant 
airspeed climbs and descents, turns to a heading, and recovery from 
unusual flight attitudes, and need not be provided by an instructor who 
holds an instrument rating on his or her flight instructor certificate. 
In addition, there are no regulations that provide for an airship 
category rating with an instrument rating on a pilot or flight 
instructor certificate. Therefore, to avoid any possible confusion, the 
rule language has been revised to specify the required instrument 
maneuvers.
    The FAA also has revised Sec. 61.109(g)(4) to require that an 
applicant for a private pilot certificate with an airship rating must 
accomplish 5 hours performing the duties of PIC in an airship with an 
authorized instructor. In the final rule, this provision required an 
applicant to log 5 hours of solo flight time with an authorized 
instructor. However, solo flight time cannot be accomplished with an 
authorized instructor on board the aircraft; therefore, the provision 
should have stated that the applicant is required to perform the duties 
of PIC.
    For reasons similar to those previously discussed in the preamble 
to Sec. 61.109(f), the FAA has revised Sec. 61.109(h) to clarify that 
an applicant for a private pilot certificate with a balloon class 
rating must accomplish with an authorized instructor the ``training 
flights'' and the flight performing the duties of PIC required in that 
paragraph. The FAA notes that the authorized instructor in that case 
would be a commercial pilot with a balloon class rating.
    Section 61.129  Aeronautical experience. In Notice No. 95-11, 
proposed Sec. 61.129(b)(4) would have required an applicant to 
accomplish solo flight time in a multiengine airplane. During the 
rulemaking process, the FAA determined that the accomplishment of solo 
flight time in a multiengine airplane may be impracticable because of 
liability and insurance concerns. Therefore, in the final rule, the FAA 
replaced the requirement that an applicant accomplish solo flight time 
in a multiengine airplane with the requirement that the flight time 
required under Sec. 61.129(b)(4) be acquired while performing the 
duties of PIC in a multiengine airplane with an authorized instructor. 
However, in revising this requirement, the FAA did not consider the 
applicant who holds a private pilot certificate with a multiengine 
rating and, therefore, may already have solo flight time in a 
multiengine aircraft or may be able to accomplish solo flight time 
without the cost of acquiring the required flight time with an 
authorized instructor. Therefore, the FAA has revised Sec. 61.129(b)(4) 
to require an applicant to accomplish 10 hours of solo flight in a 
multiengine airplane or 10 hours of flight time performing the duties 
of PIC in a multiengine airplane with an authorized instructor.
    In addition, the FAA has revised Sec. 61.129(b)(4) to permit an 
applicant for a commercial pilot certificate with a multiengine rating 
to credit the 10 hours of flight time performing the duties of PIC in a 
multiengine airplane required by that paragraph toward the 100 hours of 
PIC flight time required under Sec. 61.129(b)(2). This revision is 
consistent with the provisions of Sec. 61.129(b) as proposed in Notice 
No. 95-11. As previously noted, proposed Sec. 61.129(b)(4) would have 
required an applicant to accomplish solo flight time in a multiengine 
airplane. The solo flight time would have constituted PIC flight time; 
therefore, the applicant would have been able to credit that flight 
time toward the requirements of Sec. 61.129(b)(2). However, under 
Sec. 61.129(b)(4) as adopted in the final rule, an applicant would be 
performing the duties of PIC rather than acting as PIC. Consequently, 
that flight time does not constitute PIC flight time. Therefore, the 
FAA has revised Sec. 61.129(b)(4) to permit the crediting of flight 
time accomplished under that paragraph toward the requirements of 
Sec. 61.129(b)(2). However, this revision does not permit an applicant 
to log the flight time required under Sec. 61.129(b)(4) as PIC flight 
time under Sec. 61.51(e) unless the applicant holds a private pilot 
certificate with a multiengine rating and chooses to accomplish the 
requirements with an authorized instructor.
    The FAA notes that if an applicant meets the requirements of 
Sec. 61.129(b)(4) by logging 10 hours of solo flight time in a 
multiengine airplane (as permitted in this final rule), that time would 
constitute PIC flight time. Therefore, the applicant may count that 
flight time toward the requirements of Sec. 61.129(b)(2) and log it as 
PIC time under Sec. 61.51(e).
    Finally, for the reasons previously discussed in the preamble to 
Sec. 61.109, the FAA has added the phrase ``with an authorized 
instructor'' to Sec. 61.129(f) to clarify that training flights in a 
glider are to be accomplished with an authorized instructor. In 
addition, the introductory text of Sec. 61.129(f)(1) has been revised 
to clarify that the 100 flights required by paragraph (f)(1) may be 
used to meet 25 hours of flight time as a pilot in a glider also 
specified in that paragraph. Section 61.129(h) also has been revised to 
clarify that an applicant for a commercial pilot certificate with a 
balloon class rating must accomplish with an authorized instructor (a 
commercial pilot with a balloon class rating) the ``training flights'' 
and flight performing the duties of PIC required by that paragraph.
    Section 61.157  Flight proficiency. For the reasons discussed in 
the preamble to Sec. 61.63, the FAA has revised Sec. 61.157(b)(3), 
which provides for the addition of an aircraft type rating to an ATP 
certificate, to permit the lifting of the ``VFR only'' limitation once 
the person passes the practical test in actual or simulated instrument 
conditions rather than under IFR.
    In addition, the FAA has removed the requirement in 
Sec. 61.157(f)(2) that proficiency and competency checks used to 
satisfy the requirements of Sec. 61.157 include all maneuvers and 
procedures required for the issuance of a type rating. That requirement 
was inconsistent with the waiver provision of Sec. 61.157(j) and the 
requirements of appendix F to part 121. Section 61.157(f)(2) also has 
been revised to clarify that those checks must be conducted by an 
authorized designated pilot examiner or FAA aviation safety inspector. 
The previous rule language stated that the checks had to be evaluated 
by a ``designated examiner or FAA inspector.''
    The introductory language of paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of 
Sec. 61.157 has been revised to clarify that the requirements of those 
paragraphs must be met only if a flight simulator or flight training 
device is used to meet ``all,'' rather than ``any,'' of the training 
requirements and the practical test for an airline transport pilot 
certificate with the applicable category, class, and type rating. The 
word ``all'' was inadvertently changed to the word ``any'' during the 
rulemaking process when the previous provisions of Secs. 61.158(d)(3) 
and 61.163 were incorporated into Sec. 61.157(g).
    Finally, the FAA has revised Sec. 61.157(g)(8) to reference 
Sec. 61.157(g)(7)(ii) rather than Sec. 61.157(g)(7). Therefore, 
Sec. 61.157(g)(8) provides that an applicant meeting only the 
requirements of paragraph (g)(7)(ii) of that section be issued an 
additional rating or an ATP certificate with an additional rating, as 
applicable, with a limitation. Similarly, paragraphs (h)(8) and (i)(8) 
have been revised to reference Secs. 61.157(h)(7)(ii) and 
61.157(i)(7)(ii), respectively, rather than Secs. 61.157(h)(7) and 
61.157(i)(7).

[[Page 20285]]

    Section 61.197  Renewal of flight instructor certificates. Section 
61.197(a) permits a person to renew a current flight instructor 
certificate by passing a practical test or by presenting certain 
documentation to a FAA Flight Standards Inspector. A person may renew a 
current flight instructor certificate at any time with one exception. 
As adopted in the final rule, a person may renew a current flight 
instructor certificate through presentation of a graduation certificate 
from an approved flight instructor refresher course (FIRC) only if the 
FIRC was completed within the 90 days preceding the expiration of the 
current flight instructor certificate.
    The FAA has revised paragraph (a)(2)(iii) to permit the renewal of 
a current flight instructor certificate at any time by presenting a 
graduation certificate demonstrating that the applicant has 
successfully completed an approved FIRC. The FAA notes, however, that 
if a flight instructor renews his or her flight instructor certificate 
more than 3 calendar months before the expiration of that certificate 
by presenting a graduation certificate from an FIRC, that course must 
have been completed within the 3 calendar months preceding the date of 
presentation of the graduation certificate to the Flight Standards 
Inspector. The FAA has replaced the ``90 day'' language with the phrase 
``3 calendar months'' throughout Sec. 61.197 to facilitate the 
calculation of the relevant time periods. Section 61.197(b)(2) will 
provide that if renewal is sought within the 3 calendar months 
preceding the expiration month of the current flight instructor 
certificate through the presentation of an FIRC graduation certificate, 
the FIRC must have been completed within the 3 calendar months 
preceding the expiration month of the certificate.
    In addition to the correction discussed above, the FAA has made 
other minor revisions to Sec. 61.197 to clarify the provisions of that 
section. The following discussion is provided to explain the provisions 
of Sec. 61.197 as adopted in this final rule.
    Paragraph (a)(1)(i) has been revised to state that a person may 
renew a current flight instructor certificate by passing a practical 
test ``for one of the ratings listed on the current flight instructor 
certificate.'' For example, if a flight instructor holds a current 
flight instructor certificate with single-engine airplane and 
multiengine airplane ratings, that instructor would be required to pass 
a practical test for only one of those ratings to be issued a new 
flight instructor certificate with both ratings. The previous language, 
which required the applicant to take a practical test ``for renewal of 
the flight instructor certificate,'' may have given the impression that 
an applicant had to take a practical test for each of the ratings 
listed on the applicant's flight instructor certificate. This has never 
been the policy of the FAA and it was not the intention of the FAA to 
impose such a requirement when the final rule language was adopted.
    Paragraph (a)(2)(ii) permits a person to renew their flight 
instructor certificate without accomplishing a practical test by 
presenting to an authorized FAA Flight Standards Inspector a record 
that shows that within the preceding 24 calendar months the flight 
instructor has served in a position involving the regular evaluation of 
pilots. The FAA offers the following examples of ``a position involving 
the regular evaluation of pilots.'' A person who regularly determines 
whether pilots may use a fixed base operator's aircraft may be in a 
position involving the regular evaluation of pilots. A captain for a 
certificate holder operating under part 121 or part 135 may be in a 
position involving the regular evaluation of pilots. These individuals 
may renew their flight instructor's certificate under paragraph 
(a)(2)(ii) if the authorized FAA Flight Standards Inspector is 
acquainted with the duties and responsibilities of the applicant's 
position and the applicant has satisfactory knowledge of current pilot 
training, certification, and standards.
    Paragraph (b)(1) has been revised to state the general rule that a 
current flight instructor certificate will be renewed for an additional 
24 months from the month the person accomplishes any of the renewal 
requirements of paragraph (a). This provision allows a flight 
instructor to renew his or her flight instructor certificate at any 
time. The FAA notes that if renewal is accomplished through the 
presentation of a graduation certificate from an FIRC under paragraph 
(a)(2)(iii), the new expiration date will be calculated from the date 
the graduation certificate is presented to the Flight Standards 
Inspector rather than the date the FIRC is completed.
    Paragraph (b)(2) allows a person who accomplishes any of the 
renewal requirements of paragraph (a) in the 3 calendar months 
preceding the expiration month of the person's current flight 
instructor certificate to renew their certificate for an additional 24 
months from the month of expiration of the current flight instructor 
certificate. However, as previously noted, if renewal is accomplished 
under paragraph (b)(2) through the presentation of a graduation 
certificate from an FIRC, that course must have been completed within 
the 3 calendar months preceding the expiration month of the current 
flight instructor certificate. For example, if a person whose current 
flight instructor certificate expires on May 31, 1998, seeks to renew 
his or her certificate through presentation of a graduation certificate 
from an FIRC and obtain a new expiration date of May 31, 2000, that 
person must complete the FIRC and present the graduation certificate to 
the Flight Standards Inspector on or after February 1, 1998. The 3-
calendar-month window is computed from the first day of the expiration 
month rather than the last day of the expiration month of the current 
flight instructor certificate. Therefore, if a person's flight 
instructor certificate expires on May 31, 1998, the 3-calendar-month 
window is computed from May 1, 1998.
    Section 61.199  Expired flight instructor certificates and ratings. 
The FAA has revised Sec. 61.199 to clarify that a flight instructor who 
holds an expired flight instructor certificate may exchange that 
certificate for a new flight instructor certificate with the same 
ratings by passing a practical test as required in Sec. 61.183(h) for 
only one of the ratings listed on the expired certificate. Section 
61.199 previously did not require a flight instructor who held an 
expired flight instructor certificate to pass a practical test for each 
rating listed on that certificate and the FAA did not intend to impose 
such a requirement when it revised that section.
Part 141
    Section 141.35  Chief instructor qualifications. The FAA has 
revised Sec. 141.35 to require that a chief instructor for a course of 
training leading to the issuance of a recreational pilot certificate 
meet the requirements of Sec. 141.35(b). This provision was 
inadvertently omitted from the final rule. Without this revision, those 
chief instructors would be required to meet the more demanding 
requirements of Sec. 141.35(d).
    Section 141.36  Assistant chief instructor qualifications. Section 
141.36 has been revised to require that assistant chief instructors for 
a course leading to the issuance of a recreational pilot certificate 
meet the requirements of Sec. 141.36(b), rather than the more demanding 
requirements of Sec. 141.36(d).
    Appendix B to Part 141--Private Pilot Certification Course and 
Appendix D to Part 141--Commercial Pilot

[[Page 20286]]

Certification Course. For the reasons previously discussed in the 
preamble to Secs. 61.109 and 61.129, paragraph 4(b)(6) of appendix B to 
part 141 and paragraph 4(b)(6) of appendix D to part 141 have been 
revised to include the phrase ``with a certificated flight instructor'' 
when requiring an applicant to accomplish training flights in a glider. 
In addition, paragraph 4(b)(8) of appendix B has been revised to 
clarify that the five flights an applicant for a private pilot 
certificate with a balloon class rating must accomplish are ``training 
flights.'' The word ``training'' was inadvertently omitted from the 
final rule.

Good Cause Justification for Immediate Adoption

    This amendment makes minor revisions to clarify the language in 
parts 61 and 141 and includes certain provisions omitted from a 
previous rulemaking action. In addition, the amendment would impose no 
additional burden on the public. Therefore, the FAA finds that notice 
and opportunity for public comment before adopting this amendment are 
unnecessary.

Regulatory Evaluation

    The FAA has determined that this regulation imposes no additional 
burden on any person. Accordingly, it has been determined that the 
action (1) is not significant under Executive Order 12866 and (2) is 
not a significant rule under Department of Transportation Order 2100.5, 
Policies and Procedures for Simplification, Analysis, and Review of 
Regulations. No cost impact is expected to result from this amendment 
and, therefore, a full regulatory evaluation is not required. In 
addition, the FAA certifies that the rule will not have a significant 
economic impact, positive or negative, on a substantial number of small 
entities under the criteria of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects

14 CFR Part 61

    Aircraft, Airmen, Aviation safety, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

14 CFR Part 141

    Airmen, Aviation safety, Educational facilities, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements, Schools.

The Amendment

    In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation 
Administration amends parts 61 and 141 of Title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations (14 CFR part 61 and part 141) as follows:

PART 61--CERTIFICATION: PILOTS, FLIGHT INSTRUCTORS, AND GROUND 
INSTRUCTORS

    1. The authority citation for part 61 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701-44703, 44707, 44709-
44711, 45102-45103, 45301-45302.

    2. Section 61.2 is amended by revising paragraph (a) and the 
introductory text of paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.2  Certification of foreign pilots, flight instructors, and 
ground instructors.

    (a) Except as provided for in paragraph (b) of this section, an 
airman certificate issued under this part (other than under Sec. 61.75) 
may not be issued to a person who is not a citizen of the United States 
or a resident alien of the United States unless that person passes the 
appropriate practical test within the United States.
    (b) A person who is not a citizen of the United States or a 
resident alien of the United States may be issued an airman 
certificate, and the practical test for that certificate may be 
administered outside the United States when--
* * * * *
    3. Section 61.31 is amended by revising the paragraph (h) heading 
and the introductory text of paragraph (i)(1) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.31  Type rating requirements, additional training, and 
authorization requirements.

* * * * *
    (h) Additional aircraft type-specific training. * * *
* * * * *
    (i) Additional training required for operating tailwheel airplanes. 
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (i)(2) of this section, no person 
may act as pilot in command of a tailwheel airplane unless that person 
has received and logged flight training from an authorized instructor 
in a tailwheel airplane and received an endorsement in the person's 
logbook from an authorized instructor who found the person proficient 
in the operation of a tailwheel airplane. The flight training must 
include at least the following maneuvers and procedures:
* * * * *
    4. Section 61.35 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(1) to read as 
follows:


Sec. 61.35  Knowledge test: Prerequisites and passing grades.

    (a) * * *
    (1) Received an endorsement, if required by this part, from an 
authorized instructor certifying that the applicant accomplished the 
appropriate ground-training or a home-study course required by this 
part for the certificate or rating sought and is prepared for the 
knowledge test; and
* * * * *
    5. Section 61.39 is amended by revising the introductory text of 
paragraph (a)(6) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.39  Prerequisites for practical tests.

    (a) * * *
    (6) Have an endorsement, if required by this part, in the 
applicant's logbook or training record that has been signed by an 
authorized instructor who certifies that the applicant--
* * * * *
    6. Section 61.45 is amended by revising paragraph (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec. 61.45  Practical tests: Required aircraft and equipment.

* * * * *
    (b) Required equipment (other than controls). (1) Except as 
provided in paragraph (b)(2) of this section, an aircraft used for a 
practical test must have--
    (i) The equipment for each area of operation required for the 
practical test;
    (ii) No prescribed operating limitations that prohibit its use in 
any of the areas of operation required for the practical test;
    (iii) Except as provided in paragraph (e) of this section, at least 
two pilot stations with adequate visibility for each person to operate 
the aircraft safely; and
    (iv) Cockpit and outside visibility adequate to evaluate the 
performance of the applicant when an additional jump seat is provided 
for the examiner.
    (2) An applicant for a certificate or rating may use an aircraft 
with operating characteristics that preclude the applicant from 
performing all of the tasks required for the practical test. However, 
the applicant's certificate or rating, as appropriate, will be issued 
with an appropriate limitation.
* * * * *
    7. Section 61.51 is amended by revising paragraphs (d) and 
(e)(1)(i), (ii) and (e)(4)(i) and by adding paragraph (e)(1)(iii) to 
read as follows:


Sec. 61.51  Pilot logbooks.

* * * * *
    (d) Logging of solo flight time. Except for a student pilot 
performing the duties of pilot in command of an airship requiring more 
than one pilot flight crewmember, a pilot may log as solo flight time 
only that flight time when the pilot is the sole occupant of the 
aircraft.
    (e) * * *
    (1) * * *

[[Page 20287]]

    (i) Is the sole manipulator of the controls of an aircraft for 
which the pilot is rated;
    (ii) Is the sole occupant of the aircraft; or
    (iii) Except for a recreational pilot, is acting as pilot in 
command of an aircraft on which more than one pilot is required under 
the type certification of the aircraft or the regulations under which 
the flight is conducted.
* * * * *
    (4) * * *
    (i) Is the sole occupant of the aircraft or is performing the 
duties of pilot of command of an airship requiring more than one pilot 
flight crewmember;
* * * * *
    8. Section 61.56 is amended by revising the introductory text of 
paragraph (c), redesignating paragraph (g) as paragraph (h), 
redesignating paragraph (h) as paragraph (i) and revising it, and 
adding paragraph (g) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.56  Flight review.

* * * * *
    (c) Except as provided in paragraphs (d), (e), and (g) of this 
section, no person may act as pilot in command of an aircraft unless, 
since the beginning of the 24th calendar month before the month in 
which that pilot acts as pilot in command, that person has--
* * * * *
    (g) A student pilot need not accomplish the flight review required 
by this section provided the student pilot is undergoing training for a 
certificate and has a current solo flight endorsement as required under 
Sec. 61.87 of this part.
* * * * *
    (i) A flight simulator or flight training device may be used to 
meet the flight review requirements of this section subject to the 
following conditions:
    (1) The flight simulator or flight training device must be used in 
accordance with an approved course conducted by a training center 
certificated under part 142 of this chapter.
    (2) Unless the flight review is undertaken in a flight simulator 
that is approved for landings, the applicant must meet the takeoff and 
landing requirements of Sec. 61.57(a) or Sec. 61.57(b) of this part.
    (3) The flight simulator or flight training device used must 
represent an aircraft or set of aircraft for which the pilot is rated.
    9. Section 61.63 is amended by revising paragraphs (d)(5), (f)(10), 
and (g)(10) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.63  Additional aircraft ratings (other than on an airline 
transport pilot certificate).

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (5) Must perform the practical test in actual or simulated 
instrument conditions, unless the aircraft's type certificate makes the 
aircraft incapable of operating under instrument flight rules. If the 
practical test cannot be accomplished for this reason, the person may 
obtain a type rating limited to ``VFR only.'' The ``VFR only'' 
limitation may be removed for that aircraft type when the person passes 
the practical test in actual or simulated instrument conditions. When 
an instrument rating is issued to a person who holds one or more type 
ratings, the type ratings on the amended pilot certificate shall bear 
the ``VFR only'' limitation for each aircraft type rating for which the 
person has not demonstrated instrument competency;
* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (10) A applicant meeting only the requirements of paragraph 
(f)(9)(ii) of this section will be issued an additional rating with a 
limitation.
* * * * *
    (g) * * * 
    (10) An applicant meeting only the requirements of paragraph 
(g)(9)(ii) of this section will be issued an additional rating with a 
limitation.
* * * * *
    10. Section 61.87 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec. 61.87  Solo requirements for student pilots.

    (a) General. A student pilot may not operate an aircraft in solo 
flight unless that student has met the requirements of this section. 
The term ``solo flight'' as used in this subpart means that flight time 
during which a student pilot is the sole occupant of the aircraft or 
that flight time during which the student performs the duties of a 
pilot in command of a gas balloon or an airship requiring more than one 
pilot flight crewmember.
* * * * *
    11. Section 61.109 is amended by revising paragraphs (f), (g)(2), 
(g)(4), the introductory text of paragraph (h) and paragraphs (h)(1)(i) 
and (ii) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.109  Aeronautical experience.

* * * * *
    (f) For a glider category rating. (1) If the applicant for a 
private pilot certificate with a glider category rating has not logged 
at least 40 hours of flight time as a pilot in a heavier-than-air 
aircraft, the applicant must log at least 10 hours of flight time in a 
glider in the areas of operation listed in Sec. 61.107(b)(6) of this 
part, and that flight time must include at least--
    (i) 20 flights in a glider in the areas of operations listed in 
Sec. 61.107(b)(6) of this part, including at least 3 training flights 
in a glider with an authorized instructor in preparation for the 
practical test that must have been performed within the 60-day period 
preceding the date of the test; and
    (ii) 2 hours of solo flight time in a glider in the areas of 
operation listed in Sec. 61.107(b)(6) of this part, with not less than 
10 launches and landings being performed.
    (2) If the applicant has logged at least 40 hours of flight time in 
a heavier-than-air aircraft, the applicant must log at least 3 hours of 
flight time in a glider in the areas of operation listed in 
Sec. 61.107(b)(6) of this part, and that flight time must include at 
least--
    (i) 10 solo flights in a glider in the areas of operation listed in 
Sec. 61.107(b)(6) of this part; and
    (ii) 3 training flights in a glider with an authorized instructor 
in preparation for the practical test that must have been performed 
within the 60-day period preceding the date of the test.
    (g) * * *
    (2) 3 hours of flight training in an airship on the control and 
maneuvering of an airship solely by reference to instruments, including 
straight and level flight, constant airspeed climbs and descents, turns 
to a heading, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, radio 
communications, and the use of navigation systems/facilities and radar 
services appropriate to instrument flight;
* * * * *
    (4) 5 hours performing the duties of pilot in command in an airship 
with an authorized instructor.
    (h) For a balloon rating. A person who applies for a private pilot 
certificate with a lighter-than-air category and balloon class rating 
must log at least 10 hours of flight training that includes at least 
six training flights with an authorized instructor in the areas of 
operation listed in Sec. 61.107(b)(8) of this part, that includes--
    (1) * * *
    (i) At least one training flight with an authorized instructor 
within 60 days prior to application for the rating on the areas of 
operation for a gas balloon;
    (ii) At least one flight performing the duties of pilot in command 
in a gas balloon with an authorized instructor; and
* * * * *

[[Page 20288]]

    12. Section 61.129 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(4) 
introductory text, (f), (g)(5) introductory text, and (h)(4) 
introductory text, (h)(4)(i)(A), (B), and (h)(4)(ii)(A) to read as 
follows:


Sec. 61.129  Aeronautical experience.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (4) 10 hours of solo flight time in a multiengine airplane or 10 
hours of flight time performing the duties of pilot in command in a 
multiengine airplane with an authorized instructor (either of which may 
be credited towards the flight time requirement in paragraph (b)(2) of 
this section), on the areas of operation listed in Sec. 61.127(b)(2) of 
this part that includes at least--
* * * * *
    (f) For a glider rating. A person who applies for a commercial 
pilot certificate with a glider category rating must log at least--
    (1) 25 hours of flight time as a pilot in a glider and that flight 
time must include at least 100 flights in a glider as pilot in command, 
including at least--
    (i) 3 hours of flight training in a glider or 10 training flights 
in a glider with an authorized instructor on the areas of operation 
listed in Sec. 61.127(b)(6) of this part, including at least 3 training 
flights in a glider with an authorized instructor in preparation for 
the practical test within the 60-day period preceding the date of the 
test; and
    (ii) 2 hours of solo flight that include not less than 10 solo 
flights in a glider on the areas of operation listed in 
Sec. 61.127(b)(6) of this part; or
    (2) 200 hours of flight time as a pilot in heavier-than-air 
aircraft and at least 20 flights in a glider as pilot in command, 
including at least--
    (i) 3 hours of flight training in a glider or 10 training flights 
in a glider with an authorized instructor on the areas of operation 
listed in Sec. 61.127(b)(6) of this part including at least 3 training 
flights in a glider with an authorized instructor in preparation for 
the practical test within the 60-day period preceding the date of the 
test; and
    (ii) 5 solo flights in a glider on the areas of operation listed in 
Sec. 61.127(b)(6) of this part.
    (g) * * *
    (5) 10 hours of flight training performing the duties of pilot in 
command with an authorized instructor on the areas of operation listed 
in Sec. 61.127(b)(7) of this part, which includes at least--
* * * * *
    (h) * * *
    (4) 10 hours of flight training that includes at least 10 training 
flights with an authorized instructor in balloons on the areas of 
operation listed in Sec. 61.127(b)(8) of this part, which consists of 
at least--
    (i) * * *
    (A) 2 training flights of 2 hours each with an authorized 
instructor in a gas balloon on the areas of operation appropriate to a 
gas balloon within 60 days prior to application for the rating;
    (B) 2 flights performing the duties of pilot in command in a gas 
balloon with an authorized instructor on the appropriate areas of 
operation; and
* * * * *
    (ii) * * *
    (A) 2 training flights of 1 hour each with an authorized instructor 
in a balloon with an airborne heater on the areas of operation 
appropriate to a balloon with an airborne heater within 60 days prior 
to application for the rating;
* * * * *
    13. Section 61.157 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(3), 
(f)(2), (g) introductory text, (g)(8), (h) introductory text, (i) 
introductory text, and (i)(8) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.157  Flight proficiency.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (3) Must perform the practical test in actual or simulated 
instrument conditions, unless the aircraft's type certificate makes the 
aircraft incapable of operating under instrument flight rules. If the 
practical test cannot be accomplished for this reason, the person may 
obtain a type rating limited to ``VFR only.'' The ``VFR only'' 
limitation may be removed for that aircraft type when the person passes 
the practical test in actual or simulated instrument conditions.
* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (2) The checks specified in paragraph (f)(1) of this section must 
be conducted by an authorized designated pilot examiner or FAA aviation 
safety inspector.
    (g) Use of a flight simulator or flight training device for an 
airplane rating. If a flight simulator or flight training device is 
used for accomplishing all of the training and the required practical 
test for an airplane transport pilot certificate with an airplane 
category, class, and type rating, if applicable, the applicant, flight 
simulator, and flight training device are subject to the following 
requirements:
* * * * *
    (8) An applicant meeting only the requirements of paragraph 
(g)(7)(ii) of this section will be issued an additional rating or an 
airline transport pilot certificate with an additional rating, as 
applicable, with a limitation. The limitation shall state: ``This 
certificate is subject to pilot-in-command limitations for the 
additional rating.''
* * * * *
    (h) Use of a flight simulator or flight training device for a 
helicopter rating. If a flight simulator or flight training device is 
used for accomplishing all of the training and the required practical 
test for an airline transport pilot certificate with a helicopter class 
rating and type rating, if applicable, the applicant, flight simulator, 
and flight training device are subject to the following requirements:
* * * * *
    (8) An applicant meeting only the requirements of paragraph 
(h)(7)(ii) of this section will be issued an additional rating or an 
airline transport pilot certificate with an additional rating, as 
applicable, with a limitation. The limitation shall state: ``This 
certificate is subject to pilot-in-command limitations for the 
additional rating.''
* * * * *
    (i) Use of a flight simulator or flight training device for a 
powered-lift rating. If a flight simulator or flight training device is 
used for accomplishing all of the training and the required practical 
test for an airline transport pilot certificate with a powered-lift 
category rating and type rating, if applicable, the applicant, flight 
simulator, and flight training device are subject to the following 
requirements:
* * * * *
    (8) An applicant meeting only the requirements of paragraph 
(i)(7)(ii) of this section will be issued an additional rating or an 
airline transport pilot certificate with an additional rating, as 
applicable, with a limitation. The limitation shall state: ``This 
certificate is subject to pilot-in-command limitations for the 
additional rating.''
* * * * *
    14. Section 61.159 is amended by revising the introductory text of 
paragraph (a)(4) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.159  Aeronautical experience: Airplane category rating.

    (a) * * *
    (4) 250 hours of flight time in an airplane as a pilot in command, 
or as second in command performing the duties of pilot in command while 
under the supervision of a pilot in command, or any combination 
thereof, which includes at least--
* * * * *

[[Page 20289]]

    15. Section 61.161 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)(3) and 
(a)(4) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.161  Aeronautical experience: Rotorcraft category and 
helicopter class rating.

    (a) * * *
    (3) 200 hours of flight time in helicopters, which includes at 
least 75 hours as a pilot in command, or as second in command 
performing the duties of a pilot in command under the supervision of a 
pilot in command, or any combination thereof; and
    (4) 75 hours of instrument flight time in actual or simulated 
instrument meteorological conditions, of which at least 50 hours are 
obtained in flight with at least 25 hours in helicopters as a pilot in 
command, or as second in command performing the duties of a pilot in 
command under the supervision of a pilot in command, or any combination 
thereof.
* * * * *
    16. Section 61.163 is amended by revising the introductory text of 
paragraph (a)(3) to read as follows:


Sec. 61.163  Aeronautical experience: Powered-lift category rating.

    (a) * * *
    (3) 250 hours in a powered-lift as a pilot in command, or as a 
second in command performing the duties of a pilot in command under the 
supervision of a pilot in command, or any combination thereof, which 
includes at least--
* * * * *
    17. Section 61.197 is revised to read as follows:


Sec. 61.197  Renewal of flight instructor certificates.

    (a) A person who holds a flight instructor certificate that has not 
expired may renew that certificate by--
    (1) Passing a practical test for--
    (i) One of the ratings listed on the current flight instructor 
certificate; or
    (ii) An additional flight instructor rating; or
    (2) Presenting to an authorized FAA Flight Standards Inspector--
    (i) A record of training students showing that, during the 
preceding 24 calendar months, the flight instructor has endorsed at 
least five students for a practical test for a certificate or rating 
and at least 80 percent of those students passed that test on the first 
attempt;
    (ii) A record showing that, within the preceding 24 calendar 
months, the flight instructor has served as a company check pilot, 
chief flight instructor, company check airman, or flight instructor in 
a part 121 or part 135 operation, or in a position involving the 
regular evaluation of pilots; or
    (iii) A graduation certificate showing that, within the preceding 3 
calendar months, the person has successfully completed an approved 
flight instructor refresher course consisting of ground training or 
flight training, or a combination of both.
    (b) The expiration month of a renewed flight instructor certificate 
shall be 24 calendar months from--
    (1) The month the renewal requirements of paragraph (a) of this 
section are accomplished; or
    (2) The month of expiration of the current flight instructor 
certificate provided--
    (i) The renewal requirements of paragraph (a) of this section are 
accomplished within the 3 calendar months preceding the expiration 
month of the current flight instructor certificate, and
    (ii) If the renewal is accomplished under paragraph (a)(2)(iii) of 
this section, the approved flight instructor refresher course must be 
completed within the 3 calendar months preceding the expiration month 
of the current flight instructor certificate.
    (c) The practical test required by paragraph (a)(1) of this section 
may be accomplished in a flight simulator or flight training device if 
the test is accomplished pursuant to an approved course conducted by a 
training center certificated under part 142 of this chapter.
    18. Section 61.199 is amended by revising paragraph (a) to read as 
follows:


Sec. 61.199  Expired flight instructor certificates and ratings.

    (a) Flight instructor certificates. The holder of an expired flight 
instructor certificate may exchange that certificate for a new 
certificate with the same ratings by passing a practical test as 
prescribed in Sec. 61.183(h) of this part for one of the ratings listed 
on the expired flight instructor certificate.
* * * * *

PART 141--PILOT SCHOOLS

    19. The authority citation for part 141 continues to read as 
follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701-44703, 44707, 44709, 
44711, 45102-45103, 45301-45302.

    20. Section 141.35 is amended by revising the introductory text of 
paragraphs (b) and (d) to read as follows:


Sec. 141.35  Chief instructor qualifications.

* * * * *
    (b) For a course of training leading to the issuance of a 
recreational or private pilot certificate or rating, a chief instructor 
must have:
* * * * *
    (d) For a course of training other than one leading to the issuance 
of a recreational or private pilot certificate or rating, or an 
instrument rating or a rating with instrument privileges, a chief 
instructor must have:
* * * * *
    21. Section 141.36 is amended by revising the introductory text of 
paragraphs (b) and (d) to read as follows:


Sec. 141.36  Assistant chief instructor qualifications.

* * * * *
    (b) For a course of training leading to the issuance of a 
recreational or private pilot certificate or rating, an assistant chief 
instructor must have:
* * * * *
    (d) For a course of training other than one leading to the issuance 
of a recreational or private pilot certificate or rating, or an 
instrument rating or a rating with instrument privileges, an assistant 
chief instructor must have:
* * * * *
    22. Appendix B to part 141 is amended by revising paragraphs (b)(6) 
(i) and (ii) and the introductory text of paragraph (b)(8) of section 
No. 4 and paragraphs (b) introductory text, (g), and (h) of section No. 
5 to read as follows:

Appendix B to Part 141--Private Pilot Certification Course

* * * * *
    4. * * *
    (b) * * *
    (6) * * *
    (i) Five training flights in a glider with a certificated flight 
instructor on the launch/tow procedures approved for the course and 
on the appropriate approved areas of operation listed in paragraph 
(d)(6) of this section; and
    (ii) Three training flights in a glider with a certificated 
flight instructor in preparation for the practical test within 60 
days preceding the date of the test.
* * * * *
    (8) For a lighter-than-air balloon course: 8 hours of flight 
training, including at least five training flights, from a 
commercial pilot with a balloon rating on the approved areas of 
operation in paragraph (d)(8) of this section, that includes--
* * * * *
    5. * * *
    (b) For an airplane multiengine course: 5 hours of flight 
training in a multiengine airplane performing the duties of a pilot 
in command while under the supervision of a certificated flight 
instructor. The training must consist of the approved areas of 
operation in paragraph (d)(2) of section No. 4 of this appendix, and 
include at least--
* * * * *

[[Page 20290]]

    (g) For a lighter-than-air airship course: 5 hours of flight 
training in an airship performing the duties of pilot in command 
while under the supervision of a commercial pilot with an airship 
rating. The training must consist of the approved areas of operation 
in paragraph (d)(7) of section No. 4 of this appendix.
    (h) For a lighter-than-air balloon course: Two solo flights in a 
balloon with an airborne heater if the course involves a balloon 
with an airborne heater or, if the course involves a gas balloon, at 
least two flights in a gas balloon performing the duties of pilot in 
command while under the supervision of a commercial pilot with a 
balloon rating. The training must consist of the approved areas of 
operation in paragraph (d)(8) of section No. 4 of this appendix, in 
the kind of balloon for which the course applies.
* * * * *
    23. Appendix D to part 141 is amended by revising paragraphs 
(b)(6)(i) and (ii) of section No. 4 and paragraphs (b) introductory 
text, and (g) introductory text of section No. 5 to read as follows:

Appendix D to Part 141--Commercial Pilot Certification Course

* * * * *
    4. * * *
    (b) * * *
    (6) * * *
    (i) Five training flights in a glider with a certificated flight 
instructor on the launch/tow procedures approved for the course and 
on the appropriate approved areas of operation listed in paragraph 
(d)(6) of this section; and
    (ii) Three training flights in a glider with a certificated 
flight instructor in preparation for the practical test within 60 
days preceding the date of the test.
* * * * *
    5. * * *
    (b) For an airplane multiengine course: 10 hours of flight 
training in a multiengine airplane performing the duties of pilot in 
command while under the supervision of a certificated flight 
instructor. The training must consist of the approved areas of 
operation in paragraph (d)(2) of section No. 4 of this appendix, and 
include at least--
* * * * *
    (g) For a lighter-than-air airship course: 10 hours of flight 
training in an airship performing the duties of pilot in command 
while under the supervision of a commercial pilot with an airship 
rating. The training must consist of the approved areas of operation 
in paragraph (d)(7) of section No. 4 of this appendix and include at 
least--
* * * * *

    Issued in Washington, D.C., on April 20, 1998.
Jane F. Garvey,
Administrator.
[FR Doc. 98-10793 Filed 4-22-98; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P