[Federal Register Volume 72, Number 25 (Wednesday, February 7, 2007)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 5806-5854]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: E7-1467]



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Part II





Department of Transportation





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Federal Aviation Administration



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14 CFR Parts 61, 91 and 141



Pilot, Flight Instructor, and Pilot School Certification; Proposed Rule

  Federal Register / Vol. 72, No. 25 / Wednesday, February 7, 2007 / 
Proposed Rules  

[[Page 5806]]


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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Parts 61, 91, and 141

[Docket No. FAA-2006-26661; Notice No. 06-20]
RIN 2120-AI86


Pilot, Flight Instructor, and Pilot School Certification

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).

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SUMMARY: The FAA proposes to amend the training, qualification, 
certification, and operating requirements for pilots, flight 
instructors, ground instructors, and pilot schools. These changes are 
needed to clarify, update, and correct our existing regulations. These 
changes are intended to ensure that flight crewmembers have the 
training and qualifications to enable them to operate aircraft safely.

DATES: Send your comments to reach us on or before May 8, 2007.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, identified by Docket Number FAA-2006-
26661, using any of the following methods:
     DOT Docket Web site: Go to http://dms.dot.gov and follow 
the instructions for sending your comments electronically.
     Government-wide rulemaking Web site: Go to http://www.regulations.gov and follow the instructions for sending your 
comments electronically.
     Mail: Docket Management Facility; U.S. Department of 
Transportation, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Nassif Building, Room PL-401, 
Washington, DC 20590-0001.
     Fax: 1-202-493-2251.
     Hand Delivery: Room PL-401 on the plaza level of the 
Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.
    For more information on the rulemaking process, see the 
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section of this document.
    Privacy: We will post all comments we receive, without change, to 
http://dms.dot.gov, including any personal information you provide. For 
more information, see the Privacy Act discussion in the SUPPLEMENTARY 
INFORMATION section of this document.
    Docket: To read background documents or comments received, go to 
http://dms.dot.gov at any time or to Room PL-401 on the plaza level of 
the Nassif Building, 400 Seventh Street, SW., Washington, DC, between 9 
a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: John D. Lynch, Certification and 
General Aviation Operations Branch, AFS-810, General Aviation and 
Commercial Division, Flight Standards Service, Federal Aviation 
Administration, 800 Independence Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591; 
Telephone No. (202) 267-3844; e-mail [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

I. Comments Invited

    The FAA invites interested persons to participate in this 
rulemaking by submitting written comments, data, or views. We also 
invite comments relating to the economic, environmental, energy, or 
federalism impacts that might result from adopting the proposals in 
this document. The most helpful comments reference a specific portion 
of the proposal, explain the reason for any recommended change, and 
include supporting data. We ask that you send us two copies of written 
comments.
    We will file in the docket all comments we receive, as well as a 
report summarizing each substantive public contact with FAA personnel 
concerning this proposed rulemaking. The docket is available for public 
inspection before and after the comment closing date. If you wish to 
review the docket in person, go to the address in the ADDRESSES section 
of this preamble between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, 
except Federal holidays. You may also review the docket using the 
Internet at the web address in the ADDRESSES section.
    Privacy Act: Using the search function of our docket Web site, 
anyone can find and read the comments received into any of our dockets, 
including the name of the individual sending the comment (or signing 
the comment on behalf of an association, business, labor union, etc.). 
You may review DOT's complete Privacy Act Statement in the Federal 
Register published on April 11, 2000 (65 FR 19477-78) or you may visit 
http://dms.dot.gov.
    Before acting on this proposal, we will consider all comments we 
receive on or before the closing date for comments. We will consider 
comments filed late if it is possible to do so without incurring 
expense or delay. We may change this proposal in light of the comments 
we receive.
    If you want the FAA to acknowledge receipt of your comments on this 
proposal, include with your comments a pre-addressed, stamped postcard 
on which the docket number appears. We will stamp the date on the 
postcard and mail it to you.

II. Proprietary or Confidential Business Information

    Do not file in the docket information that you consider to be 
proprietary or confidential business information. Send or deliver this 
information directly to the person identified in the FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT section of this document. You must mark the 
information that you consider proprietary or confidential. If you send 
the information on a disk or CD-ROM, mark the outside of the disk or 
CD-ROM and also identify electronically within the disk or CD-ROM the 
specific information that is proprietary or confidential.
    Under 14 CFR 11.35(b), when we are aware of proprietary information 
filed with a comment, we do not place it in the docket. We hold it in a 
separate file to which the public does not have access, and place a 
note in the docket that we have received it. If we receive a request to 
examine or copy this information, we treat it as any other request 
under the Freedom of Information Act (5 U.S.C. 552). We process such a 
request under the DOT procedures found in 49 CFR part 7.

III. Availability of Rulemaking Documents

    (1) You can get an electronic copy using the Internet by: Searching 
the Department of Transportation's electronic Docket Management System 
(DMS) Web page at http://dms.dot.gov/search;
    (2) Visiting the FAA's Regulations and Policies Web page at: http://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies; or
    (3) Accessing the Government Printing Office's Web page at: http://www.gpoaccess.gov/fr/index.html.
    You can also get a copy by sending a request to the Federal 
Aviation Administration, Office of Rulemaking, ARM-1, 800 Independence 
Avenue, SW., Washington, DC 20591, or by calling (202) 267-9680. Make 
sure to identify the docket number, notice number, or amendment number 
of this rulemaking.

IV. Authority for This Rulemaking

    The FAA's authority to issue rules regarding aviation safety is 
found in Title 49 of the United States Code. Subtitle I, Sec.  106 
describes the authority of the FAA Administrator, including the 
authority to issue, rescind, and revise regulations. Subtitle VII, 
Aviation

[[Page 5807]]

Programs, describes in more detail the scope of the agency's authority.
    This rulemaking is promulgated under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Chapter 447--Safety Regulation. Under Sec.  
44701, the FAA is charged with promoting safe flight of civil aircraft 
in air commerce by prescribing regulations necessary for safety. Under 
Sec.  44703, the FAA issues an airman certificate to an individual when 
we find, after investigation, that the individual is qualified for, and 
physically able to perform the duties related to, the position 
authorized by the certificate. In this NPRM, we are proposing to amend 
the training, qualification, certification, and operating requirements 
for pilots, flight instructors, ground instructors, and pilot schools.
    These changes are intended to ensure that flight crewmembers have 
the training and qualifications to enable them to operate aircraft 
safely. For this reason, the proposed changes are within the scope of 
our authority and are a reasonable and necessary exercise of our 
statutory obligations.

V. Background

    On April 4, 1997, the FAA published a final rule amending the pilot 
and flight instructor certification, training, and experience rules of 
part 61, the ground instructor certification, training, and experience 
rules of subpart I of part 61, and the certification rules of part 141 
for FAA-approved pilot schools (See 62 FR 16220). Since that time, we 
have determined that changes are needed to clarify and refine these 
regulations and address problems discovered since we issued the final 
rule. We also received a number of sound suggestions from the regulated 
community through petitions for rulemaking, industry/agency meetings, 
and requests for interpretation. Consequently, we are proposing 
revisions and making clarifications under part 61 that pertain to 
pilot, flight instructor, and ground instructor certification 
requirements. We also are proposing to make revisions to part 141 and 
its appendixes, which apply to FAA-approved pilot schools.
    One significant proposal under this notice involves pilot and 
flight instructor training and qualifications for operating with night 
vision goggles (NVG). In February 2000, FAA Flight Standards Service 
personnel and an FAA Aviation Rulemaking Advisory Committee (ARAC) met 
in Washington, DC to discuss establishing requirements for pilot and 
flight instructor training and qualifications for operating with night 
vision goggles. The ARAC was convened because the FAA recognized the 
use of NVGs had increased significantly--the cost of the equipment had 
decreased and the equipment itself had become easier to use. Hence, the 
aviation community asked the FAA to standardize the equipment and the 
corresponding training programs. The information shared and the 
decisions made from the February 2000 ARAC meeting are the basis for 
these proposed NVG rules.

VI. Summary Table on the Proposed Changes

    The table below lists the changes contained in this NPRM in order 
of their Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) designations. The table is 
organized as follows: The first column, identified as ``Proposal No.,'' 
refers to the paragraph number in the ``Description of Proposed 
Changes'' portion of this preamble where a detailed discussion of the 
proposed change appears. The second column gives the CFR designation of 
the regulation we are proposing to change. The third column, identified 
as ``Summary of the Proposed Changes,'' provides a brief summary of the 
proposed amendment.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
             Proposal No.                  CFR designation               Summary of the proposed changes
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1....................................  Sec.   61.1(b)(15).....  Add a definition for the term ``night vision
                                                                 goggles.''
2....................................  Sec.   61.1(b)(14).....  Add a definition for the term ``night vision
                                                                 goggle operations.''
3....................................  Sec.   61.1(b)(2)(i)...  Add the term ``current'' for the ground
                                                                 instructor certificate under the definition of
                                                                 authorized instructor.
3....................................  Sec.   61.1(b)(2)(ii)..  Correct the term ``current'' and add the term
                                                                 ``valid'' for the flight instructor certificate
                                                                 under the definition of authorized instructor.
3....................................  Sec.   61.1(b)(5)......  Add the definition of ``current'' to airman
                                                                 certificates, ratings, and authorizations,
                                                                 which would mean the pilot has met the
                                                                 appropriate recent flight experience
                                                                 requirements of part 61 for the flight
                                                                 operation being conducted and the pilot's
                                                                 medical certificate has not expired, if a
                                                                 medical certificate is required.
3....................................  Sec.   61.1(b)(22).....  Add the definition of ``valid'' for airman
                                                                 certificates, ratings, and authorizations,
                                                                 which would mean the airmen certificate,
                                                                 ratings, and authorizations have not been
                                                                 surrendered, suspended, revoked, or expired.
3....................................  Sec.   61.3(a)(1)......  Add the qualifier ``current and valid.''
3....................................  Sec.   61.3(f)(2)(i) &   Add the qualifier ``current and valid.''
                                        (ii).
3....................................  Sec.   61.3(c).........  Add the qualifier ``current and valid.''
3....................................  Sec.   61.3(g)(2)(i),    Add the qualifier ``current and valid.''
                                        (ii).
4....................................  Sec.   61.3(j)(1)......  Delete the phrase ``Except as provided in
                                                                 paragraph (j)(3) of this section.''
4....................................  Sec.   61.3(j)(3)......  Delete this provision because the dates have
                                                                 passed.
5....................................  Sec.   61.19(b)........  Extend the duration period for student pilot
                                                                 certificates for persons under the age of 40
                                                                 years.
6....................................  Sec.   61.19(b)(3).....  Extend the duration period for student pilot
                                                                 certificates for persons seeking the glider or
                                                                 balloon rating to 36 calendar months.
7....................................  Sec.   61.19(d)........  Establish flight instructor certificates without
                                                                 expiration dates.
8 & 81...............................  Sec.   61.19(e)........  Parallel the ground instructor certificate
                                                                 duration with the ground instructor currency
                                                                 requirements in proposed Sec.   61.217.
9....................................  Sec.   61.23(a)(3)(iv)-  Make minor editorial changes to the medical
                                        (v).                     certificate requirements.
9....................................  Sec.   61.23(a)(3)(vii)  Permit Examiners to hold only a 3rd class
                                                                 medical certificate as already provided for in
                                                                 FAA Order 8710.3D.
10...................................  Sec.   61.23(b)(3).....  Clarify the no medical certificate requirement
                                                                 for when persons are exercising the privileges
                                                                 of their pilot certificate when operating a
                                                                 balloon or a glider.
11...................................  Sec.   61.23(b)(7).....  Clarify the no medical certificate requirement
                                                                 for Examiners who are administering practical
                                                                 tests in a glider, balloon, flight simulator,
                                                                 or flight training device.
12...................................  Sec.   61.23(b)(8).....  Clarify the no medical certificate requirement
                                                                 when taking a practical test in a glider,
                                                                 balloon, flight simulator, or flight training
                                                                 device.

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13...................................  Sec.   61.23(b)(9).....  Add a provision excusing U.S. military pilots
                                                                 from obtaining an FAA medical certification,
                                                                 provided he or she holds a current medical
                                                                 examination from a medical facility of the U.S.
                                                                 Armed Forces and the flight does not involve a
                                                                 flight in air transportation service under
                                                                 parts 121, 125, or 135 of this chapter.
14...................................  Sec.   61.29(d)(3).....  Delete the requirement that a person furnish
                                                                 their social security number.
15...................................  Sec.   61.31(d)(1).....  Make minor editorial change.
15...................................  Sec.   61.31(d)(2).....  Delete existing paragraph (d)(2).
15...................................  Sec.   61.31(d)(3).....  Re-designate existing paragraph (d)(3) as
                                                                 paragraph (d)(2).
16...................................  Sec.   61.31(l)........  Establish training for operating with night
                                                                 vision goggles.
17...................................  Sec.   61.35(a)(2)(iv).  Clarify when a person must show their current
                                                                 residential address when making application for
                                                                 a knowledge test.
18...................................  Sec.   61.39(b)(2).....  Delete the word ``scheduled'' in front of the
                                                                 phrase ``U.S. military air transport
                                                                 operations.''
3....................................  Sec.   61.39(c)(1).....  Add the qualifier ``valid.''
19...................................  Sec.   61.39(c)(2).....  Delete the exception that an applicant does not
                                                                 have to receive an instructor endorsement for
                                                                 an additional aircraft class rating. Sections
                                                                 61.39(a)(6) and 61.63(c) require an instructor
                                                                 endorsement.
20...................................  Sec.   61.39(d) & (e)..  Change the phrase ``60 calendar days'' to read
                                                                 ``2 calendar months'' for the training required
                                                                 prior to the practical test.
21...................................  Sec.   61.43(a) and (b)  Clarify when single pilot performance is
                                                                 required on the practical test vs. permitting
                                                                 issuance of the ``second in command''
                                                                 limitation.
22...................................  Sec.   61.45(a)(2)(iii)  Define a military aircraft for the purpose of
                                                                 using it for a practical test.
23...................................  Sec.   61.45(c)........  Except gliders from the requirement that
                                                                 aircraft used for a practical test must have
                                                                 engine power controls and flight controls that
                                                                 are easily reached and operable in a
                                                                 conventional manner by both pilots.
24...................................  Sec.   61.51(b)(3)(iv).  Add a provision for logging night vision goggle
                                                                 time.
27...................................  Sec.   61.51(b)(1)(iv).  Revise the instructions for logbook entries to
                                       Sec.   61.51(b)(2)(v)..   include personal computer aviation training
                                       Sec.   61.51(b)(3)(iii)   device (PCATD).
25...................................  Sec.   61.51(e)(1).....  Correct an omission and permit airline transport
                                                                 pilots (ATPs) to log pilot-in-command (PIC)
                                                                 flight time.
26...................................  Sec.   61.51(e)(1)(iv).  Permit a pilot who is performing the duties of
                                                                 PIC while under the supervision of a qualified
                                                                 PIC to log PIC time.
27...................................  Sec.   61.51(g)(4).....  Clarify use of flight simulator, flight training
                                                                 device, PCATD to conform to current practice
                                                                 and require that an instructor be present to
                                                                 observe the session and sign the person's
                                                                 logbook.
28...................................  Sec.   61.51(j)........  Establish that an aircraft must hold an
                                                                 airworthiness certificate, with some
                                                                 exceptions, for a pilot to log flight time to
                                                                 meet the certificate, rating, or recent flight
                                                                 experience requirements under part 61.
29...................................  Sec.   61.51(k)........  Add the criteria and standards for logging night
                                                                 vision goggle time.
30...................................  Sec.   61.57(c)(1).....  Revise the instrument recent flight experience
                                                                 for maintaining instrument privileges in
                                                                 airplanes, powered-lifts, helicopters, and
                                                                 airships.
30...................................  Sec.   61.57(c)(2)-(5).  Permit the use of flight simulators, flight
                                                                 training devices, or PCATD for performing
                                                                 instrument recent flight experience.
30...................................  Sec.   61.57(c)(6).....  Revise the instrument recent flight experience
                                                                 for maintaining instrument privileges in
                                                                 gliders.
31...................................  Sec.   61.57(d)........  Clarify when an instrument proficiency check
                                                                 must be completed to serve as the PIC under IFR
                                                                 or in weather conditions less than the minimums
                                                                 prescribed for VFR.
32...................................  Sec.   61.57(f)........  Add a night vision goggle recent operating
                                                                 experience requirement to remain PIC qualified
                                                                 for night vision goggle operations.
33...................................  Sec.   61.57(g)........  Add a night vision goggle proficiency check
                                                                 requirement to remain PIC qualified for night
                                                                 vision goggle operations.
34...................................  Sec.   61.59(a)-(c)....  Add clarifying language to address
                                                                 falsification, reproduction, alteration and
                                                                 incorrect statements.
35...................................  Sec.   61.63...........  Change the title to read ``Additional aircraft
                                                                 ratings (other than for ratings at the airline
                                                                 transport pilot certificate level).''
35...................................  Sec.   61.63(c)(4).....  Clarify what is intended for those applicants
                                                                 who hold only a lighter than air (LTA)-Balloon
                                                                 rating and who seek an LTA-Airship rating.
35...................................  Sec.   61.63(d)(5).....  Add a provision in subparagraph (5) to account
                                                                 for aircraft not capable of instrument flight.
                                                                 Parallels proposed Sec.   61.157(b)(3).
35...................................  Sec.   61.63(e)........  Re-designate paragraph (h) as paragraph (e).
                                                                 Amend the requirements for permitting use of
                                                                 aircraft not capable of instrument flight for a
                                                                 rating. Parallels proposed Sec.   61.157(g).
35...................................  Sec.   61.63(f)........  Clarify that an applicant for type rating in a
                                                                 multiengine, single seat airplane must meet the
                                                                 requirements in the multi-seat version of that
                                                                 type airplane, or the examiner must be in a
                                                                 position to observe the applicant during the
                                                                 practical test. Parallels proposed Sec.
                                                                 61.157(h).
35...................................  Sec.   61.63(g)........  Clarify that an applicant for type rating in a
                                                                 single engine, single seat airplane may meet
                                                                 the requirements in a multi-seat version of
                                                                 that type airplane, or the examiner must be in
                                                                 a position to observe the applicant during the
                                                                 practical test. Parallels proposed Sec.
                                                                 61.157(i).
36...................................  Sec.   61.64...........  Place the existing Sec.   61.63(e), (f), and (g)
                                                                 and Sec.   61.157(g), (h), and (i) that address
                                                                 the requirements for using flight simulators
                                                                 and flight training devices into proposed Sec.
                                                                  61.64
35...................................  Sec.   61.63(h)........  Re-designate paragraph (k) as paragraph (h).
                                                                 Clarify that certain tasks may be waived if the
                                                                 FAA has approved the task to be waived to
                                                                 parallel Sec.   61.157(m).
36...................................  Sec.   61.64(a) and (b)  Move Sec.   61.63(e) and Sec.   61.157(g) to
                                                                 proposed Sec.   61.64. Simplify and amend the
                                                                 requirements and limitations for use of a
                                                                 flight simulator or flight training device for
                                                                 an airplane rating.
36...................................  Sec.   61.64(a)(2)(i) &  Clarify that to use a flight simulator for
                                        (ii).                    training and testing for the airplane category,
                                                                 class, or type rating, the type rating cannot
                                                                 contain the supervised operating experience
                                                                 limitation.

[[Page 5809]]

 
36...................................  Sec.   61.64(c) and (d)  Move Sec.   61.63(f) and Sec.   61.157(h) to
                                                                 proposed Sec.   61.64. Simplify and amend the
                                                                 requirements and limitations for use of a
                                                                 flight simulator or flight training device for
                                                                 a helicopter rating.
36...................................  Sec.   61.64(c)(2)(i) &  Clarify that to use a flight simulator for
                                        (ii).                    training and testing for the helicopter class
                                                                 or type rating, the type rating cannot contain
                                                                 the supervised operating experience limitation.
36...................................  Sec.   61.64(e) and (f)  Move Sec.   61.63(g) and Sec.   61.157(i) to
                                                                 proposed Sec.   61.64. Simplify and amend the
                                                                 requirements and limitations for use of a
                                                                 flight simulator or flight training device for
                                                                 a powered-lift rating.
36...................................  Sec.   61.64(e)(2)(i) &  Clarify that to use a flight simulator for
                                        (ii).                    training and testing for the powered-lift
                                                                 category or type rating, the type rating cannot
                                                                 contain the supervised operating experience
                                                                 limitation.
37...................................  Sec.   61.65(d)........  Require at least 10 hours of cross-country time
                                                                 as PIC to be in an airplane appropriate to the
                                                                 instrument rating sought, so that it conforms
                                                                 to the ICAO requirements for instrument rating.
37...................................  Sec.   61.65(e)........  Require at least 10 hours of cross-country time
                                                                 as PIC to be in a helicopter appropriate to the
                                                                 instrument rating sought, so that it conforms
                                                                 to the ICAO requirements for instrument rating.
37...................................  Sec.   61.65(f)........  Require at least 10 hours of cross-country time
                                                                 as PIC to be in a powered-lift appropriate to
                                                                 the instrument rating sought, so that it
                                                                 conforms to the ICAO requirements for
                                                                 instrument rating.
37...................................  Sec.   61.65(g)........  Make minor changes to address the usage of
                                                                 flight simulator and flight training devices
                                                                 for the instrument rating. Re-designate
                                                                 paragraph (e) as paragraph (g).
38...................................  Sec.   61.65(h)........  Permit the use of a PCATD to be used for 10
                                                                 hours of instrument time.
3....................................  Sec.   61.69(a)(1).....  Require tow pilots' certificates to be ``current
                                                                 and valid.''
39...................................  Sec.   61.69(a)(4).....  Correct typographical error involving the word
                                                                 ``or.''
40...................................  Sec.   61.69(a)(6).....  Increase the recent flight experience
                                                                 requirements for tow pilots from 12 months to
                                                                 24 months.
41...................................  Sec.   61.73(b)........  Combine existing paragraphs (b), (c), and (d)
                                                                 into proposed paragraph (b). Delete the
                                                                 requirement that military pilots and former
                                                                 military pilots must be on active flying status
                                                                 within the past 12 months to qualify under
                                                                 these special rules. Delete the requirement
                                                                 that military pilots and former military pilots
                                                                 must have PIC status to qualify for pilot
                                                                 certification under these special rules. Also,
                                                                 minor editorial changes.
41...................................  Sec.   61.73(c)........  Delete paragraph (c). Propose that military
                                                                 pilots of an Armed Force of a foreign
                                                                 contracting State to ICAO qualify for U.S.
                                                                 Commercial Pilot Certificates and ratings
                                                                 provided they are assigned in an operational
                                                                 U.S. military unit for other than for flight
                                                                 training purposes.
41...................................  Sec.   61.73(d)........  Re-designate paragraph (e) as (d). Minor
                                                                 editorial changes.
41...................................  Sec.   61.73(e)........  Re-designate paragraph (f) as (e). Minor
                                                                 editorial changes.
41...................................  Sec.   61.73(f)........  Re-designate paragraph (g) as (f). Delete the
                                                                 phrase ``as pilot in command during the 12
                                                                 calendar months before the month of
                                                                 application.'' Minor editorial changes.
42...................................  Sec.   61.73(g)........  Allow issuing flight instructor certificates and
                                                                 ratings to military instructor pilots who
                                                                 graduate from a U.S. military instructor pilot
                                                                 school with an instructor pilot qualification.
43...................................  Sec.   61.73(h)........  Clarify the evidentiary documents required to
                                                                 qualify military pilots for a pilot certificate
                                                                 and ratings under the special rules of Sec.
                                                                 61.73 for military pilots.
44...................................  Sec.   61.75(a)........  Require foreign pilot license to be at the level
                                                                 of private pilot certificate or higher to be
                                                                 issued a U.S. private pilot certificate. Change
                                                                 the requirement for the foreign pilot
                                                                 certificate from being ``current'' to
                                                                 ``valid.''
44...................................  Sec.   61.75(b)........  Require foreign pilot license to be at the level
                                                                 of private pilot certificate or higher to be
                                                                 issued a U.S. private pilot certificate. Change
                                                                 the requirement for the foreign pilot
                                                                 certificate from being ``current'' to
                                                                 ``valid.''
3....................................  Sec.   61.75(b)(2).....  Require foreign pilot certificates to be
                                                                 ``valid.''
45...................................  Sec.   61.75(b)(3).....  Add ``other than a U.S. student pilot
                                                                 certificate.''
46...................................  Sec.   61.75(c)........  Add the qualifier ``for private pilot privileges
                                                                 only'' to clarify issuance of U.S. private
                                                                 pilot certificates based on foreign pilot
                                                                 licenses.
3....................................  Sec.   61.75(d)........  Add the qualifier ``valid.''
47...................................  Sec.   61.75(e)........  Correct an error: where the rule states ``U.S.
                                                                 private pilot certificate,'' it should state
                                                                 ``U.S. pilot certificate.''
47...................................  Sec.   61.75(e)(1).....  Correct an error: where the rule states
                                                                 ``private pilot privilege,'' it should state
                                                                 ``pilot privileges authorized by this part and
                                                                 the limitations placed on that U.S. pilot
                                                                 certificate.''
47...................................  Sec.   61.75(e)(4).....  Correct an error: where the rule states ``U.S.
                                                                 private pilot certificate,'' it should state
                                                                 ``U.S. pilot certificate.''
47...................................  Sec.   61.75(f)........  Correct an error: where the rule states ``U.S.
                                                                 private pilot certificate,'' it should state
                                                                 ``U.S. pilot certificate'' in 2 places.
47...................................  Sec.   61.75(g)........  Correct an error: where the rule states ``U.S.
                                                                 private pilot certificate,'' it should state
                                                                 ``U.S. pilot certificate'' in 2 places.
48...................................  Sec.   61.77(a)(2).....  Clarify who can be issued a special purpose
                                                                 pilot authorization.
48...................................  Sec.   61.77(b)(1).....  Clarify the requirements for issuance of a
                                                                 special purpose pilot authorization.
3....................................  Sec.   61.77(b)(1).....  Require foreign pilot licenses to be ``current''
                                                                 and ``valid.''
48...................................  Sec.   61.77(b)(5).....  Delete a requirement that an applicant have
                                                                 documentation of meeting the recent flight
                                                                 experience requirements of part 61 to be issued
                                                                 a special purpose pilot authorization.
49...................................  Sec.   61.96(b)(9).....  Require an applicant for a recreational pilot
                                                                 certificate to hold a student pilot
                                                                 certificate.
50...................................  Sec.                     Exclude aircraft that are certificated as
                                        61.101(e)(1)(iii).       rotorcraft from the 180 horsepower powerplant
                                                                 limitation.
51...................................  Sec.   61.103(j).......  Require a private pilot certificate applicant to
                                                                 hold a valid student pilot certificate, or a
                                                                 recreational pilot certificate.
52...................................  Sec.   61.109(a)(5)(ii)  Change the distance on a cross-country flight
                                                                 for private pilot certification--single-engine
                                                                 airplane rating from ``at least 50 nautical
                                                                 miles'' to ``more than 50 nautical miles.''
52...................................  Sec.   61.109(b)(5)(ii)  Change the distance on a cross-country flight
                                                                 for private pilot certification--multi-engine
                                                                 airplane rating from ``at least 50 nautical
                                                                 miles'' to ``more than 50 nautical miles.''
53...................................  Sec.   61.109(c)(4)(ii)  Change the distance on the solo cross-country
                                                                 flight for private pilot certification--
                                                                 helicopter rating to conform to ICAO
                                                                 requirements. Change the distance on a cross-
                                                                 country flight for private pilot certification--
                                                                 helicopter rating from ``at least 25 nautical
                                                                 miles'' to read ``more than 25 nautical
                                                                 miles.''

[[Page 5810]]

 
54...................................  Sec.   61.109(d)(5)(ii)  Change the distance on the solo cross-country
                                                                 flight for private pilot certification--
                                                                 gyroplane rating to conform to ICAO
                                                                 requirements. Change the distance on a cross-
                                                                 country flight for private pilot certification--
                                                                 gyroplane rating from ``at least 25 nautical
                                                                 miles'' to read ``more than 25 nautical
                                                                 miles.''
52...................................  Sec.   61.109(e)(5)(ii)  Change the distance on a cross-country flight
                                                                 for private pilot certification--powered-lift
                                                                 rating from ``at least 50 nautical miles'' to
                                                                 ``more than 50 nautical miles.''
55...................................  Sec.   61.127(b)(4)(vi)  Add ``ground reference maneuvers'' as an area of
                                                                 operation for commercial pilot certification--
                                                                 gyroplane rating.
56...................................  Sec.                     Delete ``ground reference maneuvers'' for
                                        61.127(b)(5)(vii).       commercial pilot certification powered lift
                                                                 rating.
57...................................  Sec.   61.129(a)(3)(i).  Clarify the instrument training tasks required
                                                                 for commercial pilot certification--airplane
                                                                 single-engine rating by requiring training
                                                                 using a view-limiting device.
62...................................  Sec.                     Allow the day cross-country flight for
                                        61.129(a)(3)(iii).       commercial pilot certification single-engine
                                                                 airplane rating to be performed under visual
                                                                 flight rules (VFR) or instrument flight rules
                                                                 (IFR).
62...................................  Sec.   61.129(a)(3)(iv)  Allow the cross-country flight at night time for
                                                                 commercial pilot certification airplane single-
                                                                 engine rating to be performed under VFR or IFR.
64...................................  Sec.   61.129(a)(4)....  Permit training to be performed solo or with an
                                                                 instructor onboard for commercial pilot
                                                                 certification--airplane single-engine rating.
58...................................  Sec.   61.129(b)(3)(i).  Require instrument training tasks for commercial
                                                                 pilot certification airplane multiengine rating
                                                                 to include training using a view-limiting
                                                                 device.
62...................................  Sec.                     Allow the day cross-country flight for
                                        61.129(b)(3)(iii).       commercial pilot certification multiengine
                                                                 airplane rating to be performed under VFR or
                                                                 IFR.
62...................................  Sec.   61.129(b)(3)(iv)  Allow the cross-country flight at night time for
                                                                 commercial pilot certification multiengine
                                                                 airplane rating to be performed under VFR or
                                                                 IFR.
62...................................  Sec.   61.129(c)(3)(i).  Reduce the hour requirements on the control and
                                                                 maneuvering of a helicopter solely by reference
                                                                 to instruments from 10 hours to 5 hours for
                                                                 commercial pilot certification-helicopter
                                                                 rating and permit it to be performed in an
                                                                 aircraft, flight simulator, or flight training
                                                                 device. Clarify the control and maneuvering of
                                                                 a helicopter solely by reference to instruments
                                                                 required for commercial pilot certification for
                                                                 the helicopter rating must include training
                                                                 using a view-limiting device.
62...................................  Sec.   61.129(c)(3)(ii)  Permit the day cross-country flight for
                                                                 commercial pilot certification--helicopter
                                                                 rating to be performed under VFR or IFR.
62...................................  Sec.                     Permit the cross-country flight at night time
                                        61.129(c)(3)(iii).       for commercial pilot certification--helicopter
                                                                 rating to be performed under VFR or IFR.
64...................................  Sec.   61.129(c)(4)....  Permit training for commercial pilot
                                                                 certification helicopter rating to be performed
                                                                 solo or with an instructor onboard.
60...................................  Sec.   61.129(d)(3)(i).  Reduce the instrument training for commercial
                                                                 pilot certification--gyroplane rating to 2.5
                                                                 hours on the control and maneuvering of a
                                                                 gyroplane solely by reference to instrument and
                                                                 permit it to be conducted in an aircraft,
                                                                 flight simulator, or flight training device.
                                                                 Clarify the control and maneuvering of a
                                                                 gyroplane solely by reference to instrument
                                                                 required for commercial pilot certification
                                                                 gyroplane rating must include training using a
                                                                 view-limiting device.
62...................................  Sec.   61.129(d)(3)(ii)  Allow the day cross-country flight for
                                                                 commercial pilot certification gyroplane rating
                                                                 to be performed under VFR or IFR.
63...................................  Sec.                     Delete the requirement for a cross-country
                                        61.129(d)(3)(iii).       flight at night time for commercial pilot
                                                                 certification--gyroplane rating and establish
                                                                 it as ``At least two hours of flight training
                                                                 during night-time conditions in a gyroplane at
                                                                 an airport, that includes 10 takeoffs and 10
                                                                 landings to a full stop (with each landing
                                                                 involving a flight in the traffic pattern).''
64...................................  Sec.   61.129(d)(4)....  Permit training for commercial pilot
                                                                 certification--gyroplane rating to be performed
                                                                 solo or with an instructor onboard.
61...................................  Sec.   61.129(e)(3)(i).  Require that instrument training tasks for
                                                                 commercial pilot certification--powered-lift
                                                                 rating must include training using a view-
                                                                 limiting device.
61...................................  Sec.   61.129(e)(3)(ii)  Permit the cross-country flight at night time
                                                                 for commercial pilot certification--powered-
                                                                 lift rating to be performed under VFR or IFR.
62...................................  Sec.                     Permit the cross-country flight at night time
                                        61.129(e)(3)(iii).       for commercial pilot certification--powered-
                                                                 lift rating to be performed under VFR or IFR.
64...................................  Sec.   61.129(e)(4)....  Permit training for commercial pilot
                                                                 certification--powered-lift rating to be
                                                                 performed solo or with an instructor onboard.
64...................................  Sec.   61.129(g)(2)....  Permit training for commercial pilot
                                                                 certification--airship rating to be performed
                                                                 either solo or while performing the duties of
                                                                 PIC with an instructor onboard.
65...................................  Sec.   61.129(g)(3)....  Reformat paragraph (3) into subparagraphs (i)
                                                                 and (ii). Clarify the instrument training tasks
                                                                 for commercial pilot certification--airship
                                                                 rating require instrument training using a view-
                                                                 limiting device.
62...................................  Sec.   61.129(g)(4)(ii)  Permit the cross-country training for commercial
                                        & (iii).                 pilot certification--airship rating to be
                                                                 performed under VFR or IFR.
3....................................  Sec.   61.133(a)(1)....  Require commercial pilot certificates to be
                                                                 ``current and valid.''
3....................................  Sec.   61.153(d).......  Require pilot certificate and instrument rating
                                                                 to be ``valid.''
66...................................  Sec.   61.153(d)(3)(i),  Further clarify the additional condition to
                                        (ii).                    qualify for a U.S. ATP certificate on the basis
                                                                 of a foreign pilot certificate.
67...................................  Sec.   61.157..........  Reprint this section in its entirety due to many
                                                                 changes.
67...................................  Sec.   61.157(b).......  Add the language ``or a type rating that is
                                                                 completed concurrently with an airline
                                                                 transport pilot certificate'' so the rule more
                                                                 clearly states what is intended. Reformat this
                                                                 section so as to establish a paragraph (g) that
                                                                 permits the use of an aircraft not capable of
                                                                 instrument flight for a type rating to be added
                                                                 to an existing ATP certificate. Parallels
                                                                 proposed Sec.   61.63(e).
36 & 67..............................  Sec.   61.157(g).......  Use of flight simulators and flight training
                                                                 devices and applicant qualifications for the
                                                                 airplane rating at the ATP certification level.
                                                                 Move to proposed Sec.   61.64 as paragraph (a)
                                                                 and (b).

[[Page 5811]]

 
36 & 67..............................  Sec.   61.157(h).......  Use of flight simulators and flight training
                                                                 devices and applicant qualifications for the
                                                                 helicopter rating at the ATP certification
                                                                 level. Move to proposed Sec.   61.64 as
                                                                 paragraph (c) and (d).
36 & 67..............................  Sec.   61.157(i).......  Use of flight simulators and flight training
                                                                 devices and applicant qualifications for the
                                                                 powered-lift rating at the ATP certification
                                                                 level. Move to proposed Sec.   61.64 as
                                                                 paragraph (e) and (f).
67...................................  Sec.   61.157(g).......  Re-designate paragraph (j) as paragraph (g).
                                                                 Amends the requirements for permitting use of
                                                                 aircraft not capable of instrument flight for a
                                                                 rating to permit the issuance of a ``VFR Only''
                                                                 limitation for ATP certification. Parallels
                                                                 proposed Sec.   61.63(e).
68...................................  Sec.   61.157(h).......  Adds a provision to permit an applicant for type
                                                                 rating in a multiengine, single seat airplane
                                                                 to be performed in a multi-seat version of that
                                                                 type airplane, or the examiner must be in a
                                                                 position to observe the applicant during the
                                                                 practical test. Parallels proposed Sec.
                                                                 61.63(f).
69...................................  Sec.   61.157(i).......  Adds a provision to permit an applicant for type
                                                                 rating in a single engine, single seat airplane
                                                                 to be performed in a multi-seat version of that
                                                                 type airplane, or the examiner must be in a
                                                                 position to observe the applicant during the
                                                                 practical test. Parallels proposed Sec.
                                                                 61.63(g).
70...................................  Sec.   61.159(c)(3)....  Add a provision to accommodate the crediting of
                                                                 flight engineer time for U.S. military flight
                                                                 engineers for qualifying for an ATP certificate
                                                                 that is similar to what is provided for
                                                                 crediting flight engineer time under part 121.
71...................................  Sec.   61.159(d).......  Clarify when an applicant may be issued an ATP
                                                                 certificate with the ICAO endorsement.
71...................................  Sec.   61.159(e).......  Clarify a holder of an ATP certificate with the
                                                                 ICAO endorsement may have the endorsement
                                                                 removed after meeting the aeronautical
                                                                 experience of proposed Sec.   61.159(d).
3....................................  Sec.   61.167(a).......  Require an ATP certificate to be ``valid.''
3....................................  Sec.   61.167(b)(3)....  Require ATP certificates be ``current and
                                                                 valid.''
72...................................  Sec.                     Delete the ``go around maneuver'' for flight
                                        61.187(b)(6)(vii).       instructor certification for the glider rating.
3....................................  Sec.   61.193..........  Require flight instructor certificate be
                                                                 ``current and valid.''
73...................................  Sec.   61.195(c)(1) &    Establish the flight instructor qualifications
                                        (2).                     for providing instrument training in flight to
                                                                 be a CFII in the appropriate category and class
                                                                 of aircraft.
74...................................  Sec.   61.195(d)(3)....  Delete requirement that a flight instructor must
                                                                 sign a student's certificate for authorizing
                                                                 solo flight in Class B airspace.
75...................................  Sec.   61.195(k).......  Add flight instructor qualifications for giving
                                                                 the PIC night vision goggle qualification and
                                                                 currency training.
3....................................  Sec.   61.197(a).......  Require flight instructor certificate to be
                                                                 ``current.''
7....................................  Sec.   61.197(a)(2)....  Establish flight instructor renewal procedures
                                                                 without requiring re-issuance of the actual
                                                                 certificate.
7....................................  Sec.   61.199(a).......  Establish flight instructor reinstatement
                                                                 procedures without requiring re-issuance of the
                                                                 actual certificate. Additionally, clarify the
                                                                 reinstatement requirements for a single
                                                                 practical test for renewal of the other ratings
                                                                 held.
3....................................  Sec.   61.215(a), (c),   Require ground instructor certificates to be
                                        (d).                     ``current and valid.''
76...................................  Sec.   61.215(b).......  Delete the privilege of AGIs to provide training
                                                                 and endorsement for instrument training.
3....................................  Sec.   61.215(b).......  Require AGI certificates to be ``current and
                                                                 valid.''
77...................................  Sec.   61.217(a)--(d)..  Establish new currency requirements for ground
                                                                 instructors.
78...................................  Sec.   91.205(i).......  Establish the required instruments & equipment
                                                                 for night vision goggle operations.
79...................................  Sec.   141.5(a)--(e)...  Clarify that the ``counters'' for the pass rate
                                                                 must be 10 different people and that no one
                                                                 graduate can be counted more than once.
80...................................  Sec.   141.9...........  Correct the rule language for issuing examining
                                                                 authority.
81...................................  Sec.   141.33(d)(2)....  Reduce the number of student enrollments to 10
                                                                 students to qualify for a check instructor
                                                                 position.
82...................................  Sec.   141.39..........  Permit the use of foreign registered aircraft
                                                                 for those part 141 training facilities that are
                                                                 located outside of the United States and where
                                                                 the training is conducted outside of the United
                                                                 States.
83...................................  Sec.   141.53(c)(1)....  Delete subparagraph (c)(1) to remove an obsolete
                                                                 date.
84...................................  Sec.   141.55(e)(2)(ii)  Correct the phrase ``the practical or knowledge
                                                                 test, or any combination thereof'' because it
                                                                 should state ``the practical or knowledge test,
                                                                 as appropriate.''
85...................................  Sec.   141.77(c)(1),     Make a technical correction to the language in
                                        (2), & (3).              the rules about the proficiency and knowledge
                                                                 test required for transfer students to a part
                                                                 141 pilot school.
86...................................  Sec.   141.85(a)(1) &    Clarify duties and responsibilities that chief
                                        (d).                     instructor may delegate to an assistant chief
                                                                 instructor and recommending instructor.
87...................................  B. 2...................  Change the eligibility requirement for
                                                                 enrollment into the flight portion of the
                                                                 private pilot certification course to only
                                                                 require a recreational or student pilot
                                                                 certificate prior to entry into the solo phase
                                                                 of the flight portion.
88...................................  B. 4(b)(1)(i)..........  In the private pilot certification--single-
                                                                 engine airplane course, change the training
                                                                 required to ``on the control and maneuvering of
                                                                 a single-engine airplane solely by reference to
                                                                 instruments'' instead of calling it
                                                                 ``instrument training.''
88...................................  B. 4(b)(2)(i)..........  In the private pilot certification--multiengine
                                                                 airplane course, change the training required
                                                                 to ``on the control and maneuvering of a
                                                                 multiengine airplane solely by reference to
                                                                 instruments.''
88...................................  B. 4(b)(5)(i)..........  In the private pilot certification--powered-lift
                                                                 course, change the training required to ``on
                                                                 the control and maneuvering of a powered-lift
                                                                 solely by reference to instruments.''
89...................................  B. 5(a)(1).............  Change the distance on a cross-country flight in
                                                                 the private pilot certification--airplane
                                                                 single-engine course from ``at least 50
                                                                 nautical miles'' to ``more than 50 nautical
                                                                 miles.''
90...................................  B. 5(b)(1).............  Change the distance on a cross-country flight in
                                                                 the private pilot certification--airplane
                                                                 multiengine course from ``at least 50 nautical
                                                                 miles'' to ``more than 50 nautical miles.''
91...................................  B. 5(c)(1).............  Change the distance on a cross-country flight in
                                                                 the private pilot certification--helicopter
                                                                 course to conform to ICAO requirements which
                                                                 require a cross-country flight of at least 100
                                                                 nautical miles. Change the phrase ``at least 25
                                                                 nautical miles'' to ``more than 25 nautical
                                                                 miles.''
92...................................  B. 5(d)(1).............  Change the distance on a cross-country flight in
                                                                 the private pilot certification--gyroplane
                                                                 course from ``at least 25 nautical miles'' to
                                                                 ``more than 25 nautical miles.''

[[Page 5812]]

 
93...................................  B. 5(e)(1).............  Change the distance on a cross-country flight in
                                                                 the private pilot certification--powered lift
                                                                 course from ``at least 50 nautical miles'' to''
                                                                 more than 50 nautical miles.''
94...................................  C. 4(b)(5) & (6).......  Allow approval of instrument rating courses that
                                                                 give credit for instrument training on a PCATD.
100..................................  D. 4(b)(1)(i)..........  Require that the instrument training tasks for
                                                                 the commercial pilot certification--airplane
                                                                 single-engine course include training using a
                                                                 view-limiting device.
99...................................  D. 4(b)(1)(ii).........  Allow the complex airplane training in the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate--single-engine
                                                                 airplane course to be performed in either in a
                                                                 single-engine complex airplane or multiengine
                                                                 complex airplane.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(1)(iii)........  Allow the day cross-country flight for the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate airplane course to
                                                                 be performed under VFR or IFR.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(1)(iv).........
96...................................  D. 4(b)(2)(i)..........
96...................................  D. 4(b)(2)(iii)........
96...................................  D. 4(b)(2)(iv).........
100..................................  D. 4(b)(3)(i)..........  Require that the instrument training tasks for
                                                                 the commercial pilot certification--helicopter
                                                                 course include using a view-limiting device.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(3)(ii).........  Allow the day cross-country flight in the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate helicopter course
                                                                 to be performed under VFR or IFR.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(3)(iii)........
100..................................  D. 4(b)(4)(i)..........  Require that the instrument training tasks for
                                                                 the commercial pilot certification--gyroplane
                                                                 course include using a view-limiting device.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(4)(ii).........  Allow the day cross-country flight in the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate gyroplane course
                                                                 to be performed under VFR or IFR.
97...................................  D. 4(b)(4)(iii)........  Require a night time cross-country flight in the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate--gyroplane course
                                                                 to include at least two hours of flight
                                                                 training during night-time conditions at an
                                                                 airport, that includes 10 takeoffs and 10
                                                                 landings to a full stop (with each landing
                                                                 involving a flight in the traffic pattern).
100..................................  D. 4(b)(5)(i)..........  Require that the instrument training tasks for
                                                                 the commercial pilot certification--powered-
                                                                 lift course include using a view-limiting
                                                                 device.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(5)(ii).........  Allow the day cross-country flight in the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate powered-lift
                                                                 course to be performed under VFR or IFR.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(5)(iii)........
100..................................  D. 4(b)(7)(i)..........  Require that the instrument training tasks for
                                                                 the commercial pilot certification--airship
                                                                 course include using a view-limiting device.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(7)(ii).........  Allow the day cross-country flight in the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate--airship rating
                                                                 course to be performed under VFR or IFR.
96...................................  D. 4(b)(7)(iii)........
98...................................  D. 4(d)(4)(vi).........  Add ``ground reference maneuvers'' as an area of
                                                                 operation for the gyroplane rating in the
                                                                 commercial pilot certificate course.
95...................................  D. 5(a), (c ), (d), &    Allow training to be performed solo or with an
                                        (e).                     instructor onboard for the commercial pilot
                                                                 certificate courses.
101..................................  E. 2...................  Requires a person prior to having completed the
                                                                 flight portion of the ATP course to have met
                                                                 the ATP aeronautical experience requirements of
                                                                 part 61, subpart G.
102..................................  I. 3 & 4...............  Clarify the amount and content of ground and
                                                                 flight training for the add-on aircraft
                                                                 category and/or class rating courses in the
                                                                 recreational, private, commercial, and ATP
                                                                 certification courses.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

VII. Description of Proposed Changes

    The numbered paragraphs in this section describe the substantive 
changes we are proposing. Readers should note we are also making many 
editorial changes to the text of parts 61 and 141 for the purpose of 
clarity.

(1) Proposal to define ``night vision goggles.''

    The FAA proposes to define ``night vision goggles'' (NVG) under 
Sec.  61.1(b)(13) as ``an appliance worn by a pilot that enhances the 
pilot's ability to maintain visual surface reference at night.''

(2) Proposal to define ``night vision goggle operation.''

    The FAA proposes to define ``night vision goggle operation'' under 
Sec.  61.1(b)(14) as ``a flight at night where the pilot maintains 
visual surface reference utilizing NVGs in an aircraft that is approved 
for NVG operations.''

(3) Proposal to require airman certificates, ratings, and 
authorizations to be ``valid'' and/or ``current,'' where and when 
appropriate.

    The FAA has received inquiries as to the meaning and application of 
the terms ``valid'' and ``current'' as they appear in part 61. Neither 
term is defined under the rules. The terms are used in some sections of 
part 61, but not consistently or universally. In this proposal, the FAA 
proposes definitions for the terms ``current'' and ``valid'' under 
proposed Sec.  61.1(b)(4) and (20). We have also attempted to qualify 
when a person must hold a ``valid,'' ``current,'' or a ``valid and 
current'' pilot, flight instructor, and ground instructor certificate, 
rating, or authorization under part 61 to exercise the privileges of 
that certificate.
    The FAA encourages comments as to whether our review of inserting 
the terms ``current'' and ``valid'' throughout part 61 has been 
sufficiently exhaustive and whether the approach is even needed. One 
could conclude that including the terms may lead to greater ambiguity 
since they are arguably implicit. That is, all certificates, ratings, 
or authorizations must be both ``current'' and ``valid,'' or else they 
may not be relied upon. Based on the comments received on this proposal 
and further analysis, we may decide to withdraw the proposed 
definitions, and we may even eliminate the use of these terms 
``current'' and ``valid'' throughout part 61.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.1(b)(20), a ``valid'' pilot, flight 
instructor, or ground instructor certificate, rating, or

[[Page 5813]]

authorization would mean the certificate has not been surrendered, 
suspended, revoked, or expired. Under proposed Sec.  61.1(b)(4), the 
term ``current'' as it relates to a pilot certificate, rating, or 
authorization would mean the pilot has met the appropriate recent 
flight experience requirements under part 61 for the flight operation 
being conducted. The term ``current'' as it relates to a flight 
instructor certificate would mean the flight instructor meets the 
flight instructor recent experience required under Sec.  61.197. The 
term ``current'' as it relates to a ground instructor certificate would 
mean the ground instructor meets the recent experience required under 
Sec.  61.217.
    We are proposing to add either ``valid'' or ``current,'' or both, 
in: Sec. Sec.  61.1(b)(2)(i) and (ii), (4), and (20); 61.3(a)(1), (c), 
(f)(2)(i) and (ii), and (g)(2)(i) and (ii); 61.39(c)(1), 61.69(a)(1); 
61.75(b)(2) and (d); 61.77(b)(1); 61.103(j); 61.133(a)(1); 61.153(d)(1) 
and (3); 61.167(a) and (b)(3); the introductory language of 61.193; 
61.197(a); and 61.215(a), (b), (c), and (d).

(4) Proposal to delete an obsolete date in Sec.  61.3(j)(3).

    Under existing Sec.  61.3(j)(3), the rule makes reference to some 
obsolete dates and the rule is no longer needed. The rule states 
``Until December 20, 1999, a person may serve as a pilot in operations 
covered by this paragraph after that person has reached his or her 60th 
birthday if, on March 20, 1997, that person was employed as a pilot in 
operations covered by this paragraph.'' December 20, 1999 has now 
passed, and the FAA is proposing to delete Sec.  61.3(j)(3) in its 
entirety. Subsequently, it is necessary to delete the phrase ``Except 
as provided in paragraph (j)(3) of this section'' under Sec.  
61.3(j)(1).

(5) Proposal to revise the duration of the student pilot certificate.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.19(b) so that the duration 
period for the student pilot certificate coincides with the medical 
duration provisions under Sec.  61.23(c)(3). Since the FAA adopted a 
new duration period for the 3rd class medical certificate for persons 
who have not reached their 40th birthday, there has been a conflict 
between the duration period for the student pilot portion of the 
certificate under Sec.  61.19(b) (i.e., ``expires 24 calendar months 
from the month in which it is issued'') and the duration period for the 
medical portion of the certificate for persons who have not reached 
their 40th birthday under Sec.  61.23(c)(3) (i.e., ``The 36th calendar 
month after the month of the date of the examination shown on the 
certificate). Without the proposed change, persons under the age of 40 
years would have the student pilot portion of their certificate expire, 
but the medical portion of that certificate would remain current. 
Therefore, the FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.19(b) so that it 
parallels the 3rd class medical duration provisions under Sec.  
61.23(c)(3).

(6) Proposal to extend the duration period to 36 calendar months for 
the student pilot certificate for persons seeking a balloon or glider 
rating.

    Proposed Sec.  61.19(b)(3) would extend the duration period of a 
student pilot certificate for persons seeking a balloon or glider 
rating to 36 calendar months. Since persons who seek a balloon and 
glider rating are not required to hold a medical certificate, it is 
reasonable to extend the student pilot certificate to 36 calendar 
months as discussed in the previous paragraph. Under this proposal, 
however, the duration period would be 36 calendar months regardless of 
the age of the applicant.

(7) Proposal to issue flight instructor certificate without an 
expiration date and to clarify reinstatement requirements.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec. Sec.  61.19(d), 61.197(a), and 
61.199 to allow the issuance of flight instructor certificates without 
an expiration date. This proposal responds to a petition for rulemaking 
from the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) Safety 
Foundation. By letter, dated September 14, 1999, AOPA petitioned the 
FAA to revise Sec.  61.19(d), Sec.  61.195(a), (b), and (c), Sec.  
61.197(a) and (b), and Sec.  61.199(a). The FAA was already working on 
this proposed rule; therefore we responded to AOPA's petition by 
acknowledging receipt of the petition and informing them their petition 
would be considered under this rulemaking.
    The AOPA Safety Foundation's petition states that it believes the 
flight instructor renewal process results in burdening flight 
instructor renewal applicants and the operators of flight instructor 
refresher clinics (FIRCs) with unnecessary paperwork. The FAA would 
still require that flight instructors renew their privileges every 24 
calendar months to exercise the privileges of their flight instructor 
certificate, but it would be done without requiring the re-issuance of 
the flight instructor certificate. The FAA envisions that flight 
instructor renewal applicants would continue to send a completed FAA 
Form 8710-1, ``Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application,'' to the 
FAA's Airman Certification Branch in Oklahoma City, OK, but the 
applicants would then only be required to have their logbooks endorsed 
by a FIRC operator or by the FAA. In lieu of the logbook endorsement, 
the flight instructor renewal applicant could simply receive a 
completion certificate or a stamp in their logbook from a FIRC operator 
or from the FAA. The FAA is tailoring this proposal to similar 
procedures established for pilots who accomplish their Sec.  61.57 
flight review or Sec.  61.58 PIC proficiency check. However, the FAA 
wants to maintain the procedure of requiring flight instructor renewal 
applicants to send a completed FAA Form 8710-1 to the FAA's Airman 
Certification Branch because the FAA believes this procedure is 
important for maintaining order on flight instructor renewals and also 
for being able to retain statistical data on flight instructors.
    Under this proposal, Sec.  61.197(a)(2) would state that a person 
who holds a flight instructor certificate may renew the certificate by 
``receiving an endorsement in his or her logbook or on another suitable 
document that is acceptable to the FAA * * * ,'' to provide flight 
instructor renewal applicants significant leeway to show compliance 
with Sec.  61.197. Additionally, for the same reasons, this language 
would be included in proposed Sec.  61.199(a)(2) for flight instructor 
reinstatement applicants. Those instructors who hold flight instructor 
certificates with expiration dates would be permitted to continue to 
hold those certificates indefinitely and would just have to comply with 
the renewal procedures of Sec.  61.197 or reinstatement procedures of 
Sec.  61.199, as appropriate, to maintain their flight instructor 
``privileges.'' Regardless of what method is used to show compliance 
with Sec.  61.197 (i.e., logbook entry, completion certification, or a 
stamp inserted in the applicant's logbook, etc.), the FAA expects the 
flight instructor renewal/reinstatement applicant's record to show the 
completion date and expiration date of the renewal/reinstatement.
    Additionally, the FAA has received several inquires concerning 
whether an applicant who holds an expired flight instructor certificate 
may reinstate that certificate by satisfactorily completing an 
additional flight instructor rating practical test. As an example, the 
person holds an expired flight instructor certificate with an Airplane 
Single-Engine and a Multiengine rating. The person then makes 
application for an Instrument-Airplane additional flight instructor 
rating and wishes to reinstate

[[Page 5814]]

his or her flight instructor certificate by satisfactorily 
accomplishing the Instrument-Airplane additional flight instructor 
rating practical test. In accordance with FAA Order 8700.1, page 11-3, 
paragraph 13, ``the holder of an expired flight instructor certificate 
issued after November 1, 1975, may have all ratings on the certificate 
reinstated by satisfactorily completing a single practical test.'' 
Therefore, the FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.199(a) to read:
    (a) Flight instructor certificates. The holder of a flight 
instructor certificate who has not complied with the recent flight 
instructor experience requirements under Sec.  61.197 may reinstate 
flight instructor privileges by:
    (1) Completing and passing a flight instructor practical test, as 
prescribed under Sec.  61.183(h); and
    (2) Receiving an endorsement in his or her logbook or on another 
document that is acceptable to the FAA that shows the applicant 
completed and passed a flight instructor practical test, as prescribed 
under Sec.  61.183(h).
    This proposed amendment removes the current provision that states 
that a holder of an expired flight instructor certificate may obtain a 
new one by passing a practical test ``for one of the ratings listed on 
the expired flight instructor certificate.''
    The proposed amendment would permit the reinstatement of a flight 
instructor certificate, either by satisfactorily accomplishing an 
additional flight instructor rating practical test or by satisfactorily 
accomplishing a practical test on one of the ratings listed on the 
expired flight instructor certificate.

(8) Proposal to standardize the recent experience requirements for 
ground instructor certificates.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.19(e) by linking the currency 
requirements for the ground instructor certificate with the duration 
period requirements. The purpose is to further clarify the currency 
requirements for ground instructors. Since the issuance of Sec.  
61.19(e), there have been some questions about how a ground instructor 
remains current. Therefore, the FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.19(e) by 
linking this provision with the recent experience requirements under 
proposed Sec.  61.217.

(9) Proposal to require Examiners to hold only a 3rd class medical 
certificate.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.23(a)(3)(vii) to require 
Examiners to hold only a 3rd class medical certificate. The FAA wants 
to parallel the medical certificate requirements for Examiners with the 
medical certificate requirements that are contained in FAA Order 
8710.3D. FAA Order 8710.3D requires that an Examiner hold only a 3rd 
class medical certificate when performing practical tests in an 
aircraft (with an exception for Examiners administering practical tests 
in a glider or balloon).

(10) Proposal to clarify that persons exercising the privileges of a 
glider or balloon rating are not required to hold a medical 
certificate.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.23(b)(3) to clarify that persons 
exercising the privileges of a glider or balloon rating are not 
required to hold a medical certificate. The FAA has received questions 
about the wording of Sec.  61.23(b)(3). Some have asked whether the no 
medical certificate requirement for operating a balloon or a glider 
applies only when a person is taking a practical test for a glider or 
balloon rating, or whether it applies when a person is exercising the 
privileges of a glider or balloon rating. The rule is intended to apply 
in both situations. The FAA is proposing to amend Sec.  61.23(b)(3) to 
clarify that persons exercising the privileges of their glider or 
balloon rating in a glider or a balloon, as appropriate, are not 
required to hold a medical certificate. As further discussed in 
proposed Sec.  61.23(b)(8), a person also is not required to hold a 
medical certificate when taking a practical test for a balloon or 
glider rating.

(11) Proposal to add situations where an Examiner need not hold a 
medical certificate.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.23(b)(7) to establish that when 
an Examiner or a Check Airman is administering a test or check for an 
airman certificate, rating, or authorization in a glider, balloon, 
flight simulator, or flight training device, he or she would not be 
required to hold a medical certificate. Existing Sec.  61.23(b)(7) 
states that an Examiner or Check Airman is not required to hold a 
medical certificate when administering a test or check for a 
certificate, rating, or authorization in a flight simulator or flight 
training device. The words ``glider'' and ``balloon'' were 
inadvertently left out when the rule was last revised.

(12) Proposal to add situations where an applicant need not hold a 
medical certificate.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.23(b)(8) to establish that when 
an applicant is receiving a test or check for a certificate, rating, or 
authorization in a glider, balloon, flight simulator, or flight 
training device, the applicant is not required to hold a medical 
certificate.
    Existing Sec.  61.23(b)(8) states that an applicant is not required 
to hold a medical certificate when receiving a test or check for a 
certificate, rating, or authorization in a flight simulator or flight 
training device. The words ``glider'' and ``balloon'' were 
inadvertently left out when the rule was last revised.

(13) Proposal to excuse military pilots of the U.S. Armed Forces from 
having to obtain an FAA medical certificate.

    The FAA proposes to add a new Sec.  61.23(b)(9) to excuse military 
pilots from having to hold an FAA medical certificate. Military pilots 
would be required to complete a medical examination for flight status 
as a military pilot from a flight surgeon at a military medical 
facility of the United States. The examination would have to be 
current.
    In accordance with existing Sec.  61.39(a)(4), for a military pilot 
to be eligible for a practical test for an airman certificate or rating 
issued under part 61, an applicant must ``hold at least a current 
third-class medical certificate.'' The FAA has determined that the 
medical examinations provided by a U.S. Armed Forces medical facility 
to military pilots equals or exceeds the content and quality of a 
medical certification required by the FAA. Therefore, the FAA proposes 
to amend Sec.  61.23 by adding paragraph (b)(9) and excuse pilots of 
the U.S. Armed Forces from having to hold an FAA medical certificate 
provided that: (1) The pilot completed a medical examination for flight 
status as a military pilot from a flight surgeon at a U.S. military 
medical facility; (2) The examination is current; and (3) The flight 
does not involve a flight in air transportation service under parts 
121, 125, or 135 of this chapter.

(14) Proposal to delete the requirement for a person to furnish their 
social security number.

    The FAA proposes to delete the requirement under Sec.  61.29(d)(3) 
that a person who requests replacement of a lost or destroyed airman 
certificate, medical certificate, or knowledge test report must furnish 
their social security number. By law, the FAA cannot require a person 
to furnish his or her social security number. A person, however, may 
voluntarily provide his or her social security number as a means to 
establish his or her identity.

[[Page 5815]]

(15) Proposal to delete Sec.  61.31(d)(2).

    The FAA proposes to delete Sec.  61.31(d)(2), which requires a PIC 
of an aircraft to receive ``training for the purpose of obtaining an 
additional pilot certificate and rating that are appropriate to that 
aircraft, and be under the supervision of an authorized instructor.'' 
The FAA has received inquiries about the difference between 
subparagraphs (d)(2) and (d)(3), and the FAA determined that these 
subparagraphs conflict with one another. Furthermore, subparagraph 
(d)(2) conflicts with Sec.  61.51(e)(1)(i).
    When the FAA initially proposed Sec.  61.31(d), it was considering 
coining a new phrase that was to be known as ``supervised PIC flight'' 
that would allow a PIC who was in training to act as PIC of an aircraft 
if properly supervised by the person's flight instructor. (See 60 FR 
41160, 41227, August 11, 1995). The ``supervised PIC flight'' concept 
was not adopted in the final rule, but subparagraph (d)(2) erroneously 
remained in the final rule. (See 62 FR 16220.) Subparagraph (d)(3) of 
Sec.  61.31 covers what the FAA currently requires in order to act as 
PIC and for logging PIC time under Sec.  61.51(e)(1)(i).

(16) Proposal to add training and qualification requirements for pilots 
who want to operate with night vision goggles.

    Proposed Sec.  61.31(k) would require ground and flight training 
and a one-time instructor endorsement for a pilot to act as a PIC 
during NVG operations. Also, the FAA proposes to ``grandfather'' those 
PICs who previously qualified as a PIC for NVG operations under Sec.  
61.31(k). Under proposed subparagraph (3), a pilot would not need the 
``one-time'' NVG training and endorsement, provided the pilot can 
document satisfactory accomplishment of any of the following pilot 
checks for using NVGs in an aircraft:
     Completion of an official pilot proficiency check for 
using NVGs and that check was conducted by the U.S. Armed Forces; or
     Completion of a pilot proficiency check for using NVGs 
under part 135 of this chapter and that check was conducted by an 
Examiner or a Check Airman.

(17) Proposal to require proof of current residential address at the 
time of application for a knowledge test.

    Proposed Sec.  61.35(a)(2)(iv) would clarify that when a person's 
permanent mailing address is a P.O. Box, the person must show proof of 
their current residential address at the time of application for a 
knowledge test. The purpose of this change is to conform the 
instructions in proposed Sec.  61.35(a)(2)(iv) with the instructions in 
existing Sec.  61.60.

(18) Proposal to delete the word ``scheduled'' in front of the phrase 
``U.S. military air transport operations.''

    The purpose for this proposal is to delete the word ``scheduled'' 
that appears in front of the phrase ``U.S. military air transport 
operations'' under Sec.  61.39(b)(2) because there is no such thing as 
``scheduled'' U.S. military transport operations.

(19) Proposal to delete the phrase ``or a class rating with an 
associated type rating'' in reference to the endorsement exception for 
applying for an additional aircraft class rating.

    The FAA proposes to delete the phrase ``or a class rating with an 
associated type rating'' under Sec.  61.39(c)(2) for applying for an 
additional aircraft class rating. Existing Sec. Sec.  61.39(a)(6) and 
61.63(c) require an applicant for a practical test for an additional 
aircraft class rating to have received a logbook or training record 
endorsement from an authorized instructor. Existing Sec.  61.39(c)(2) 
incorrectly suggests that an endorsement is not required for an 
applicant for an aircraft class rating. Thus, the FAA is proposing to 
amend Sec.  61.39(c)(2) by removing the phrase ``or a class rating with 
an associated type rating'' to clarify that we are not excepting 
applicants for an aircraft type rating from obtaining an endorsement 
from an authorized instructor.

(20) Proposal to clarify the time frame for completing a practical 
test.

    The FAA proposes to change the phrase ``60 calendar days'' in Sec.  
61.39(d) and (e) to read ``2 calendar months.'' The purpose is to make 
it simpler to calculate the time for when a segmented practical test 
must be completed. An applicant who accomplishes a segmented practical 
test would be required to complete the entire practical test within 2 
calendar months after the applicant began the test. For example, an 
applicant who began the oral portion of the practical test on July 2, 
2006, would have to complete the remaining portions of the practical 
test (i.e., simulator/training device check and aircraft flight check) 
before the end of September 2006.

(21) Proposal to clarify when an applicant has the choice to perform 
the practical test as a single pilot or use a second in command.

    The FAA is proposing to revise Sec.  61.43(b) to clarify when an 
applicant can perform the practical test as a single pilot or use a 
second in command. If a second in command pilot is used under proposed 
Sec.  61.43(b)(3), the limitation ``Second in Command Required'' would 
be placed on the applicant's pilot certificate. Also, we are proposing 
to revise Sec.  61.43(a) by moving existing Sec.  61.43(a)(5) into 
proposed Sec.  61.43(b).
    Under proposed Sec.  61.43(b)(1), if the aircraft's FAA-approved 
aircraft flight manual requires the pilot flight crew complement be a 
single pilot, then the applicant would be required to demonstrate 
single pilot proficiency on the practical test.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.43(b)(2), if the aircraft's type 
certification data sheet requires the pilot flight crew complement be a 
single pilot, then the applicant would be required to demonstrate 
single pilot proficiency on the practical test.
    The Cessna 172, Cessna 310, Piper Malibu (PA-44), and Beech Baron 
(BE-58) are examples of aircraft whose flight manuals and/or type 
certification data sheets require the pilot flight crew complement be a 
single pilot.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.43(b)(3), if the FAA Flight Standardization 
Board report, FAA-approved aircraft flight manual, or aircraft type 
certification data sheet allows the pilot flight crew complement to be 
either a single pilot, or a pilot and a copilot, then the applicant may 
perform the practical test as a single pilot or with a copilot. If the 
applicant performs the practical test with a copilot, the limitation of 
``Second in Command Required'' will be placed on the applicant's pilot 
certificate. Under proposed Sec.  61.43(b)(3), the ``Second in Command 
Required'' limitation may be removed if and when the applicant passes 
the practical test by demonstrating single-pilot proficiency in the 
aircraft in which single-pilot privileges are sought.
    Examples of aircraft for which a FAA Flight Standardization Board 
has approved the minimum pilot flight crew compliment to be either a 
single pilot, or a pilot with a copilot, are certain models of the 
Beech 300, Beech 1900C, and Beech 1900D airplanes that received 
certification under SFAR 41; certain models of the Empresa Brasileira 
de Aeronautica EMB 110 airplanes that received certification under SFAR 
41, and certain models of the Fairchild Aircraft Corporation SA227-CC,

[[Page 5816]]

SA227-DC, and other Fairchild commuter category airplanes on that same 
type certificate that received certification under SFAR 41 and that 
have a passenger seating configuration, excluding pilot seats, of nine 
seats or less and the airplane's type certificate authorizes single 
pilot operations.
    The Cessna 501, Cessna 525, Cessna 551, Raytheon 390, and Beech 
2000 are examples of aircraft whose flight manuals and/or type 
certification data sheets allow the minimum pilot flight crew 
compliment to be either a single pilot, or a pilot with a copilot.

(22) Proposal to define what is a military aircraft for the purpose of 
a practical test.

    Proposed Sec.  61.45(a)(2)(iii) would clarify what is a ``military 
aircraft'' when used on a practical test. Recently, there has been some 
confusion as whether it is permissible to use a surplus military 
aircraft that has no civilian aircraft type designation for a practical 
test for an airman certificate and rating. For example, some applicants 
have requested to use a surplus military OH-58 Army helicopter for a 
practical test. These surplus military helicopters are not Bell BH-206 
helicopters, and they do not have a civilian type designation. The FAA 
has determined it is not permissible to use these surplus former 
military aircraft for completing a practical test.
    To clarify this issue, proposed Sec.  61.45(a)(2)(iii) would define 
a ``military aircraft'' as an aircraft that is under the direct 
operational control of the U.S. Armed Forces. Under this definition, 
surplus military aircraft are not military aircraft because they are 
not under the direct operational control of the U.S. military.

(23) Proposal to except gliders from the requirement that aircraft used 
for a practical test must have engine power controls and flight 
controls that are easily reached and operable in a conventional manner 
by both pilots.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.45(c) by excepting gliders from 
the requirement that aircraft used for a practical test must have 
engine power controls and flight controls that are easily reached and 
operable in a conventional manner by both pilots. Gliders do not have 
engine power controls.

(24) Proposal to provide for logging night vision goggle time.

    Proposed Sec.  61.51(b)(3)(iv) would add a provision for logging 
``night vision goggle time'' to show compliance with the training time 
and aeronautical experience required for acting as a PIC for NVG 
operations. The logging of NVG time would be permitted when performed 
in an aircraft in flight, in a flight simulator, or in a flight 
training device.

(25) Proposal to correct an omission of the words ``airline transport 
pilot'' regarding logging of pilot in command time.

    Because existing Sec.  61.51(e)(1) does not include ``airline 
transport pilots,'' it may appear that holders of airline transport 
pilot certificates do not have the same PIC logging privileges as 
recreational pilots, private pilots, and commercial pilots. To avoid 
any confusion, the FAA proposes to add the words ``airline transport 
pilot'' to Sec.  61.51(e)(1).

(26) Proposal to permit a pilot performing the duties of pilot in 
command while under the supervision of a qualified pilot in command to 
log pilot in command time.

    Proposed Sec.  61.51(e)(1)(iv) would allow a pilot who is 
performing the duties of pilot in command while under the supervision 
of a qualified PIC to log PIC time. The purpose for this proposal is to 
provide another way for holders of a commercial pilot certificate or 
airline transport pilot certificate to log PIC time.
    Section 61.51(e)(1)(iv) would permit a pilot who is performing the 
duties of PIC to log PIC flight time. The pilot who is performing the 
duties of PIC would be required to hold a current and valid commercial 
pilot certificate or a current and valid airline transport pilot 
certificate, with the aircraft rating that is appropriate to the 
category and class of aircraft being flown, if a class rating is 
appropriate. The pilot would be required to be under the supervision of 
an appropriately qualified PIC. Additionally, the pilot who is 
performing the duties of PIC would be required to undergo an approved 
PIC training program consisting of ground and flight training on the 
following areas of operation: pre-flight preparation, preflight 
procedures, takeoff and departure phase, in-flight maneuvers, 
instrument procedures, landings and approaches to landings, normal and 
abnormal procedures, emergency procedures, and post-flight procedures.
    The supervising PIC would be required to hold either a current and 
valid commercial pilot certificate and a current and valid flight 
instructor certificate with an aircraft rating that is appropriate to 
the category, class, and type of aircraft being flown, if a class or 
type rating is required, or the supervising PIC would be required to 
hold a current and valid airline transport pilot certificate and 
aircraft rating that is appropriate to the category, class, and type of 
aircraft being flown, if a class or type rating is required. The 
supervising PIC would be required to log the PIC training given in the 
pilot's logbook, certify having given the PIC training in the pilot's 
logbook, and attest that certification with his or her signature, 
flight instructor certificate number and expiration date, or ATP 
certificate number, as appropriate. This proposal would parallel and 
clarify the provisions in proposed Sec.  61.129 and existing Sec. Sec.  
61.31(d), 61.159(a)(4), 61.161(a)(3), and 61.163(a)(3) for PIC 
aeronautical experience.

(27) Proposal to conform the rule for logging of instrument time in a 
flight simulator, flight training device, and PCATD to existing policy.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.51(g)(4) so the logging of 
instrument time in a flight simulator, flight training device, or PCATD 
conforms to existing policy. An authorized instructor (See Sec.  
61.1(b)(2)) must be present in the flight simulator, flight training 
device, or PCATD when instrument time is logged for training and 
aeronautical experience used to meet the requirements for a 
certificate, rating, or flight review (See Sec.  61.51(a)). The 
instructor must sign the person's logbook to verify the training time 
and the content of the session.
    Examples of situations in which an authorized instructor would be 
considered present in the flight simulator, flight training device, or 
PCATD include where an authorized instructor is seated at a center 
control panel in a flight simulation lab and is monitoring each 
student's performance from the control panel display; where an 
instructor assigns a student to perform several instrument tasks and 
then leaves the room, if the flight training device has a monitoring 
and tracking system that allows the authorized instructor to review the 
entire training session; and where one authorized instructor monitors 
several students simultaneously in the same room at a flight simulation 
lab.
    The instructions for making logbook entries also would be amended 
to reflect the proposal that PCATDs could be used to meet the 
instrument time and recent flight experience requirements under part 
61.

[[Page 5817]]

(28) Proposal to establish the aircraft requirements for when a pilot 
logs flight time.

    Proposed Sec.  61.51(j) would establish the aircraft and aircraft 
airworthiness requirements for when a pilot logs flight time. To log 
flight time to meet the aeronautical experience requirements for a 
certificate, rating, or recent flight experience under part 61, the 
aircraft must hold an airworthiness certificate (except in the case of 
U.S. military aircraft flown by U.S. military pilots and under the 
direct operational control of the U.S. Armed Forces or public aircraft 
flown by pilots of a Federal, State, county, or municipal law 
enforcement agency).
    This proposal would, in essence, codify existing FAA policy under 
FAA Order 8700.1, Volume 2, Chapter 1, pages 1-46 and 1-47, paragraph 
9.B, which states:

    ``Logging Time. Unless the vehicle is type certificated as an 
aircraft in a category listed in (14 CFR) Sec.  61.5(b)(1) or as an 
experimental aircraft, or otherwise holds an airworthiness 
certificate, flight time acquired in such a vehicle may not be used 
to meet requirements of (14 CFR) part 61 for a certificate or rating 
or to meet the recent flight experience requirements.''

    The FAA has received several inquiries about whether it is 
permissible to use surplus military aircraft that do not hold a 
civilian type designation as an aircraft or an airworthiness 
certificate for logging flight time to meet the requirements for a 
certificate, rating, or recent flight experience under part 61. The 
FAA's response has been that the aircraft must be of the category, 
class (if class is applicable), and type (if type is applicable) listed 
under Sec.  61.5(b)(1) through (7), or the aircraft must hold an 
experimental airworthiness certificate.
    With the issuance of Public Law 106-424, dated November 1, 2000, 
pilots for a Federal, State, county, or municipal law enforcement 
agency can log flight time for the purposes of meeting the aeronautical 
experience requirements for a certificate, rating or recent flight 
experience under part 61 in limited cases. The stipulation is that the 
pilot must be operating a public aircraft, as defined under 49 U.S.C. 
40102, and the aircraft must be identifiable as a category and class of 
aircraft, as listed under Sec.  61.5(b), and being used in law 
enforcement activities of a Federal, State, county, or municipal law 
enforcement agency.

(29) Proposal to establish the criteria and standards for logging NVG 
time.

    Proposed Sec.  61.51(k) would establish the criteria and standards 
for logging NVG time. This proposal would establish the minimum 
information required to be entered when logging time in a pilot's 
logbook. Per proposed Sec.  61.51(k)(3), the required information that 
is required to be logged for logging NVG time are the logbook entries 
covered under Sec.  61.51(b).
    Under the proposal, a pilot may log NVG time using NVGs as the sole 
visual reference of the surface in an operation conducted in an 
aircraft at night (during the period beginning 1 hour after sunset and 
ending 1 hour before sunrise) in flight. Alternatively, a pilot may log 
NVG time in a flight simulator or in a flight training device provided 
the flight simulator or flight training device's lighting system has 
been adjusted to replicate the period beginning 1 hour after sunset and 
ending 1 hour before sunrise.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.51(k)(2), the rule would establish when an 
authorized instructor may log NVG time. The instructor must be 
conducting NVG training and must be using NVGs as the sole visual 
reference of the surface. The time must be in an aircraft operated at 
night in flight, or in a flight simulator or flight training device 
with the lighting system adjusted to represent the period beginning 1 
hour after sunset and ending 1 hour before sunrise.

(30) Proposal to amend the instrument recent flight experience tasks 
and iterations and to allow use of personal computer aviation training 
devices, flight simulators, and flight training devices for maintaining 
instrument recent flight experience.

    In Sec.  61.57(c), the FAA proposes to amend the instrument flight 
experience tasks and iterations and to allow use of PCATD, flight 
simulators (FS), and flight training devices (FTD) for maintaining 
instrument recent flight experience.
    The proposed change to Sec.  61.57(c) would clarify that a person 
who acts as pilot in command under IFR or weather conditions less than 
the minimums prescribed for VFR is required to look back 6 calendar 
months from the date of the flight to determine whether the instrument 
flight experience requirements were met. For example, if a pilot 
intends to act as pilot in command under IFR (or in weather conditions 
less than the minimums prescribed for VFR) on a flight that is to occur 
on February 24, 2007, the pilot would count backwards 6 calendar months 
from the date of the flight to August 2006. The pilot would have to 
have performed and logged the instrument recent flight experience 
requirements between August 1, 2006 and February 24, 2007.
    For maintaining instrument flight experience in airplanes, powered-
lifts, helicopters, and airships, the proposal would require the pilot 
to perform and log the instrument flight experience in an airplane, 
powered-lift, helicopter, or airship that is appropriate to the 
category of aircraft for the instrument rating privileges that the 
pilot desires to maintain. This instrument flight experience could be 
completed in either actual instrument meteorological conditions or 
under simulated instrument conditions with the use of a view-limiting 
device. The instrument flight experience and iterations must include at 
least:
     Six instrument approaches consisting of both precision and 
non-precision approaches;
     One complete holding pattern at a radio station and one 
complete holding pattern at an intersection or waypoint; and
     One hour of simulated cross-country practice operation 
that involves intercepting and tracking courses through the use of 
navigation systems while performing a takeoff phase, area departure 
phase, enroute phase, area arrival phase, approach phase, and a missed 
approach phase of flight.
    Subject to certain limitations, a pilot could choose to either 
complete the instrument experience requirements in an aircraft and/or 
through use of an FS, FTD, or PCATD. The simulation devices would have 
to be representative of the category of aircraft for the instrument 
rating privileges that the pilot desires to maintain.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.57(c)(2), a person could use an FS or FTD 
exclusively by performing and logging at least 3 hours of instrument 
recent flight experience within the 6 calendar months before the date 
of the flight.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.57(c)(3), a person could use a PCATD 
exclusively by having performed and logged at least 3 hours of 
instrument recent experience within the 2 calendar months before the 
date of the flight. We have deliberately proposed differences between 
the use of a PCATD and an FS or FTD because use of a PCATD to maintain 
instrument recent experience is a relatively new concept, and the FAA 
wants to further evaluate its use before we allow use of PCATDs equal 
to that of FSs and FTDs.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.57(c)(4), a person could combine use of the 
aircraft and an FS, FTD, or PCATD to obtain instrument experience. When 
a pilot elects to combine use of an aircraft and a simulation device, 
we would require, under proposed Sec.  61.57(c)(4),

[[Page 5818]]

completion of one hour of instrument flight time in the aircraft and 3 
hours in the FS, FTD, or PCATD within the preceding 6 calendar months.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.57(c)(5), a person could combine use of an 
FS or FTD, and a PCATD to obtain instrument recent experience. When a 
pilot elects this combination, we would require one hour in an FS or 
FTD, and 3 hours in a PCATD within the preceding 6 calendar months.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.57(c)(6), the instrument tasks and 
iterations for maintaining instrument flight experience in a glider 
would be amended and require the pilot to have:
     Performed and logged at least 1 hour of instrument time in 
flight in a glider or in a single-engine airplane performing cross-
country practice operations that involved intercepting and tracking 
courses through the use of navigation systems while performing an area 
departure phase, enroute phase, and area arrival phase of flight; and
     At least 2 hours of instrument flight time in a glider or 
in a single-engine airplane performing straight glides, turns to 
specific headings, steep turns, flight at various airspeeds, 
navigation, and slow flight and stalls. However, if the pilot were to 
carry passenger(s) in a glider under IFR or in weather conditions less 
than the minimums prescribed for VFR, the 2 hours of instrument recent 
flight experience would have to be performed in a glider performing 
performance maneuvers, performance airspeeds, navigation, and slow 
flight and stalls.
    The person would be required to log this instrument recent flight 
experience, tasks, and iterations in their logbook to show 
accomplishment of this instrument training. The person would be 
required to use a view-limiting device when performing this instrument 
recent flight experience or be in actual instrument meteorological 
conditions.

(31) Proposal to clarify when a person must perform an instrument 
proficiency check to act as the PIC under IFR or in weather conditions 
less than minimums prescribed for VFR.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.57(d) to clarify when a person, 
who has not met the instrument recent flight experience of Sec.  
61.57(c), must perform an instrument proficiency check to act as the 
PIC under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimums 
prescribed for VFR. The proposal would require a pilot who has not 
complied with the instrument recent experience requirement of Sec.  
61.57(c) within the preceding 12 calendar months to complete an 
instrument proficiency check to regain PIC instrument qualifications. 
The proficiency check would have to be performed in the same aircraft 
category that is appropriate to the instrument privileges desired. The 
proficiency check would consist of the tasks listed in the practical 
test standards for the instrument rating appropriate to the aircraft 
category.
    As explained in the discussion of proposed Sec.  61.57(c), this 
proposal would require a pilot to perform and log the instrument recent 
flight experience within the preceding six calendar months from the 
date of the flight to act as the PIC under IFR or in weather conditions 
less than the minimums prescribed for VFR. Under proposed Sec.  
61.57(d), if the pilot has not performed and logged the required 
instrument recent flight experience within the preceding six calendar 
months from the date of the flight, the pilot is given an additional 6 
calendar months to perform and log the required instrument recent 
flight experience. However, during this 6-month period, the pilot may 
not act as the PIC under IFR or in weather conditions less than the 
minimums prescribed for VFR until the pilot performs and logs the 
required instrument recent flight experience of proposed Sec.  
61.57(c). If during this 6-month period, the pilot does not accomplish 
the required instrument recent flight experience, then the pilot would 
have to perform an instrument proficiency check to regain his or her 
instrument currency.
    For example, if a pilot is intending to act as pilot in command 
under IFR (or in weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed 
for VFR) on a flight on February 24, 2007, and the pilot has not 
completed the required instrument recent flight experience of proposed 
Sec.  61.57(c), then the pilot would count backwards 12 calendar months 
from the date of the flight. Thus, the pilot would have to have 
performed and logged the instrument recent flight experience 
requirements at sometime between February 24, 2007, and February 1, 
2006, to avoid being required to submit to an instrument proficiency 
check.

 (32) Proposal to establish a recent flight experience requirement for 
acting as a PIC in a night vision goggle operation.

    Proposed Sec.  61.57(f) would establish a recent flight experience 
requirement to remain PIC qualified for ``NVG operations.'' To 
understand the term, ``NVG operations,'' it is necessary to further 
clarify the term ``flight.'' The term ``flight'' means a takeoff and 
landing, with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern. 
Thus, a person who performs six takeoffs and landings, with each 
landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern, and uses NVGs to 
maintain visual reference may log six ``NVG operations.''
    For a pilot to act as a PIC using NVGs with passengers on board, 
the pilot, within the preceding 2 calendar months, would have to 
perform and document the tasks under proposed Sec.  61.57(f) as the 
sole manipulator of the controls during the time period that begins 1 
hour after sunset and ends 1 hour before sunrise. If the pilot had not 
performed and logged the tasks under Sec.  61.57(f), then the FAA would 
allow the pilot an additional 2 calendar months to perform and log the 
tasks under Sec.  61.57(f). However, the pilot would not be allowed to 
carry passengers during this second 2-month period. If the pilot had 
still not performed and logged the NVG tasks in proposed Sec.  61.57(f) 
during those additional 2 calendar months, then the pilot would be 
required to pass a NVG proficiency check to act as a PIC using night 
vision goggles.
    To explain this ``2 calendar month'' currency criteria in proposed 
Sec.  61.57(f)(1), lets say for the sake of explaining this that the 
proposal becomes a final rule effective December 1, 2006. In this 
example, today is now February 24, 2007 and the pilot intends to act as 
pilot in command using NVGs with passengers on board a flight. The 
pilot would count backwards 2 calendar months from the date of the 
flight which means the pilot would count backwards from February 24, 
2007, the month of January, 2007, and through the month of December, 
2006 to December 1, 2006). Therefore, the pilot would have to have 
performed and logged the required NVG operating experience between 
December 1, 2006 and February 24, 2007.
    Under proposed Sec.  61.57(f)(2), if a pilot has not performed and 
logged the required NVG recent flight experience between December 1, 
2006 and February 24, 2007, then that pilot would have to perform and 
log the required NVG operating experience by April 30, 2007 to act as 
the pilot in command during March 2007 through April 2007 using NVGs, 
but could not carry passengers on board. Otherwise, per proposed Sec.  
61.57(f)(2), the pilot is given 2 additional months to perform and log 
the required NVG operating experience, but during that period cannot 
carry passengers until he/she has performed and logged the required NVG 
operating experience.

[[Page 5819]]

(33) Proposal to establish a NVG proficiency check requirement to act 
as a PIC of a night vision goggle operation.

    Proposed Sec.  61.57(g) would establish a proficiency check to be 
PIC qualified for NVG operations. Also, this proposal would establish a 
proficiency check to regain PIC qualifications for NVG operations when 
the pilot's NVG privileges have lapsed.
    Proposed Sec.  61.57(g) would require a pilot who has not complied 
with the NVG operating experience requirement of proposed Sec.  
61.57(f) to complete a NVG proficiency check to regain PIC NVG 
qualifications. The proficiency check would have to be performed in the 
same aircraft category that is appropriate to the NVG operation 
desired. The proficiency check would consist of the tasks listed in 
proposed Sec.  61.31(l) and would be administered by an individual 
listed under Sec.  61.31(l).

(34) Proposal to amend Sec.  61.59 to parallel Sec.  67.403 to 
standardize the language between the rules.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.59(a) and (b) and add (c), in 
part, to parallel the provisions under existing Sec.  67.403. This 
proposal would standardize the language in this chapter on 
falsification, reproduction, and alteration of applications, 
certificates, logbooks, reports, and records for the purposes of 
simplicity and clarity.

(35) Proposal to amend the format and re-structure of Sec.  61.63.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.63 to simplify its format, 
structure, and move paragraphs (e), (f), and (g), which address the 
usage and limitations of the flight simulator and flight training 
device, to proposed Sec.  61.64.
    The FAA proposes to revise existing Sec.  61.63(c)(3) to clarify 
its applicability to those applicants who hold only a lighter-than-air 
(LTA)-Balloon rating and who seek an LTA-Airship rating. Currently, the 
word ``only'' does not appear in Sec.  61.63(c)(3).
    The FAA proposes minor amendments to Sec.  61.63(d) to clarify the 
requirements for an additional type rating and a type rating sought 
concurrently with an additional aircraft category and class rating.
    The FAA proposes to revise existing Sec.  61.63(h) (and re-
designate it to proposed Sec.  61.63(e)) to clarify the use of an 
aircraft on a practical test for a type rating that is not capable of 
instrument maneuvers and procedures and the issuance of a type rating 
with a VFR limitation under these circumstances.
    The FAA proposes to revise existing Sec.  61.63(i) (and re-
designate it to proposed Sec.  61.63(f)) to clarify that an applicant 
for a type rating in a multiengine airplane with single-pilot station 
must perform the practical test in the multi-pilot seat version of that 
multiengine airplane. Or, the practical test may be performed in the 
single-seat version of that airplane if the Examiner is in a position 
to observe the applicant during the practical test in the case where 
there is no multi-seat version of that multiengine airplane. This 
proposal parallels the same requirements under proposed Sec.  61.157(h) 
(existing Sec.  61.157(k)) for a type rating in a multiengine airplane 
with single-pilot station.
    The FAA proposes to amend existing Sec.  61.63(j) (and re-designate 
it to proposed Sec.  61.63(g)) to clarify that an applicant for a type 
rating at other than ATP certification level for a single engine 
airplane with a single-pilot station must perform the practical test in 
the multi-pilot seat version of that single engine airplane. Or, the 
practical test may be performed in the single-seat version of that 
airplane if the Examiner is in a position to observe the applicant 
during the practical test in the case where there is no multi-seat 
version of that single engine airplane. This proposal would parallel 
the requirements under proposed Sec.  61.157(i) (existing Sec.  
61.157(l)) for a type rating in a single engine airplane with single-
pilot station at the ATP certification level.
    Proposed Sec.  61.63(i) would permit an Examiner who conducts a 
practical test for an additional aircraft rating under this section to 
waive any of the tasks that the FAA has approved waiver authority. This 
proposal would parallel the proposed requirements under proposed Sec.  
61.157(j) (existing Sec.  61.157(m)) at the ATP certification level.

(36) Proposal to address the use and limitations of flight simulators 
and flight training devices.

    The FAA proposes to add Sec.  61.64 that would address the use and 
limitations of flight simulators and flight training devices for 
additional aircraft ratings and for aircraft ratings at the ATP 
certification level. These requirements currently are found under Sec.  
61.63(e), (f), and (g). Additionally, proposed Sec.  61.64 would 
incorporate the parallel requirements for flight simulators and flight 
training devices that currently are found under Sec.  61.157(g), (h), 
and (i) at the ATP certification level. The purpose of these changes is 
to clarify and simplify Sec.  61.63 and Sec.  61.157 and place the use 
and limitation requirements for flight simulators and flight training 
devices in one section.
    Proposed Sec.  61.64(a) through (f) would clarify when an applicant 
may use a flight simulator or flight training device for all training, 
when an applicant may use a flight simulator for all of the required 
practical test, when the supervising operating experience (SOE) 
limitation on an applicant's pilot certificate is required, and when 
the SOE limitation may be removed.
    Proposed 61.64(a) would allow an applicant to use a flight 
simulator for all of the training and the practical test for the 
airplane category, class, or type rating, provided the flight simulator 
and the applicant meet specific qualifications under proposed Sec.  
61.64(a)(1) through (3).
    Proposed Sec.  61.64(b) would allow an applicant for the airplane 
category, class, or type rating to use a flight training device for 
training only if the flight training device meets the specific 
qualifications under proposed Sec.  61.64(b)(1) through (4). The rule 
would further make clear that a flight training device may not be used 
for any portion of the practical test. This is not a change to the 
existing requirements, but a clarification.
    Proposed Sec.  61.64(c) would allow an applicant to use a flight 
simulator for all of the training and the practical test for the 
helicopter class or type rating, provided the flight simulator and the 
applicant meet the specific qualifications under proposed Sec.  
61.64(c)(1) and (2).
    Proposed Sec.  61.64(d) would allow an applicant for the helicopter 
class or type rating to use a flight training device for training only 
if the flight training device meets specific qualifications under 
proposed Sec.  61.64(d)(1) through (4). The rule would further make 
clear that a flight training device may not be used for any portion of 
the practical test. This is not a change to the existing requirements 
but a clarification.
    Proposed Sec.  61.64 (e) would state that an applicant may use a 
flight simulator for all of the training and the practical test for the 
powered-lift category or type rating, provided the flight simulator and 
the applicant meet specific qualifications under proposed Sec.  
61.64(e)(1) and (2).
    Proposed Sec.  61.64(f) would allow an applicant for the powered-
lift category or type rating to use a flight training device for 
training only if the flight training device meets specific 
qualifications under proposed Sec.  61.64(f)(1) through (4). The rule 
would further clarify that a flight training device may not be used for 
any portion of the practical test. This is not a change

[[Page 5820]]

to the existing requirements but a clarification.
    As a result of current language in existing paragraphs (e), (f), 
and (g) of Sec.  61.63 and paragraphs (g), (h), and (i) of Sec.  
61.157, there is confusion as to whether an applicant could complete 
all training and testing for a type rating in a simulator when there is 
a supervised operating experience limitation on the applicant's pilot 
certificate for that aircraft type rating. Proposed Sec.  
61.64(a)(2)(i), (c)(2)(i), and (e)(2)(i) would specify that a type 
rating cannot contain the supervised operating experience limitation 
(i.e., ``This certificate is subject to pilot in command limitations 
for the additional rating'') for an applicant to use a flight simulator 
for all (emphasis added) training and testing for a type rating. A 
flight simulator may be used for some of the required training and 
testing for a type rating, but not ``all'' the required training and 
testing. The kinds and amount of training and testing that would be 
permitted to be performed in a flight simulator is what the flight 
simulator is approved for and in accordance with proposed Sec.  
61.64(a)(4)(i) and (b), (c)(3)(i) and (d), or (e)(3)(i) or (f), as 
appropriate for the category of aircraft and type rating sought.
    Proposed Sec.  61.64(a)(1)(iii), (c)(1)(iii), and (e)(1)(iii) would 
establish that at minimum a Level C flight simulator is required if an 
applicant wishes to use a flight simulator on a practical test for an 
aircraft rating. Proposed Sec.  61.64(a)(1)(iv), (c)(1)(iv), and 
(e)(1)(iv) would establish that at minimum a Level A flight simulator 
is required for an applicant to use a flight simulator for training.

(37) Proposal to require at least 10 hours of cross-country time as 
pilot in command to be in the category of aircraft appropriate to the 
instrument rating sought.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.65 to conform the FAA's 
instrument rating cross-country time requirements as PIC with the 
corresponding International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) 
requirements. Proposed Sec.  61.65(d) would address the aeronautical 
experience and training for the instrument-airplane rating. Proposed 
Sec.  61.65(e) would address the aeronautical experience and training 
for the instrument-helicopter rating. Proposed Sec.  61.65(f) would 
address the aeronautical experience and training for the instrument-
powered-lift rating. As an example, ICAO Annex 1, paragraph 2.10.1.2.2 
requires that an applicant for an instrument-helicopter rating log at 
least of 10 hours of cross-country time as pilot in command in a 
helicopter. Currently, Sec.  61.65(d)(1) merely states ``At least 50 
hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command, of which at 
least 10 hours must be in airplanes for an instrument-airplane 
rating.'' It does not account for the instrument-helicopter rating or 
the instrument-powered-lift rating.

(38) Proposal to allow 10 hours of the instrument training to be 
performed on a personal computer aviation training device (PCATD).

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.65 by adding paragraph (h), 
which would allow 10 hours of instrument training for the instrument 
rating to be performed on a PCATD. The instrument training may be given 
by the holder of a ground instructor certificate with an instrument 
rating or by a holder of a flight instructor certificate with an 
instrument rating appropriate to the instrument rating sought. The 10 
hours of instrument training given in a PCATD would be included in the 
20 hours of instrument training allowed to be performed in a flight 
simulator or a flight training device under proposed Sec.  61.65(e).
    For a PCATD to be used for instrument training under proposed Sec.  
61.65, the PCATD, instrument training, and instrument tasks would have 
to be approved by the FAA. The instrument training on a PCATD would 
have to be provided by an authorized instructor. For a person to 
receive the maximum 10 hours of credit in a PCATD, the person may not 
have logged and be credited for more than 10 hours of instrument 
training in a flight simulator or flight training device. A view-
limiting device would have to be worn by the applicant when logging 
instrument training in the PCATD. The instrument training and 
instrument tasks that may be approved for performance on a PCATD would 
be listed in proposed Sec.  61.65(f). The FAA specifically requests 
comments on whether, and to what extent, we should allow use of a PCATD 
for providing instrument training for the instrument rating.

(39) Proposal to correct a typographical error in Sec.  61.69(a)(4).

    The FAA is proposing to correct a typographical error in which the 
word ``or'' was erroneously deleted from Sec.  61.69(a)(4) during the 
writing of the ``Certification of Aircraft and Airmen for the Operation 
of Light-Sport Aircraft'' Final Rule (See 69 FR 44866; July 27, 2004). 
With the issuance of that rule, paragraph (a)(4) was revised to read: 
``Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, [the pilot] has 
logged at least three flights as the sole manipulator of the controls 
of an aircraft towing a glider or unpowered ultralight vehicle 
simulating towing flight procedures while accompanied by a pilot who 
meets the requirements of paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section.'' The 
word ``or'' was erroneously deleted between the words ``vehicle'' and 
``simulating.''
    This correction proposes to re-insert the word ``or'' and to make a 
minor grammatical revision to paragraph (a)(4) so that the rule will 
read: ``(4) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, [the 
pilot] has logged at least three flights as the sole manipulator of the 
controls of an aircraft while towing a glider or unpowered ultralight 
vehicle, or that person simulates towing flight procedures in an 
aircraft while accompanied by a pilot who meets the requirements of 
paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section.''

(40) Proposal to amend the recent flight experience for tow pilots by 
increasing the time allowed for achieving the required currency to 24 
calendar months.

    The FAA is proposing to amend Sec.  61.69(a)(6) for persons who 
serve as tow pilots for glider towing operations by increasing the time 
limits for when a pilot must have completed the required recent flight 
experience from 12 to 24 calendar months. This proposal responds 
favorably to a recommendation from the Soaring Safety Foundation that 
the existing time limits for recent flight experience may be 
unnecessarily onerous and cannot be supported by any accident 
statistics.

(41) Proposal to amend certain special rules affecting U.S. military 
pilots and former U.S. military pilots who apply for FAA pilot 
certification.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.73 by deleting the requirement 
under Sec.  61.73(b) that current and former pilots of the U.S. Armed 
Forces must be on active flying status within the past 12 months to 
qualify for a pilot certificate and rating under these special rules. 
Under this proposal, U.S. military pilots and former U.S. military 
pilots would qualify for their civilian pilot certificate and ratings 
on the basis of their past qualifications as a U.S. military pilot, 
completion of the military competency aeronautical knowledge test, and 
accomplishment of a flight review under existing Sec.  61.57.
    The FAA proposes new Sec.  61.73(b)(2) to clarify that the 
aeronautical knowledge test that military pilots are

[[Page 5821]]

required to take is the ``military competency'' aeronautical knowledge 
test.
    The FAA proposes new paragraph Sec.  61.73(b)(3) that would change 
the pilot status for qualifying for a pilot certificate and ratings 
under these special rules from ``pilot in command'' to ``pilot'' in the 
U.S. Armed Forces. The U.S. military's pilot qualification and flight 
time recording documents and procedures have changed since the initial 
establishment of Sec.  61.73. The U.S. Armed Forces no longer issues 
pilot in command orders to its graduates who complete its Undergraduate 
Pilot Training Course. Pilot in command status occurs when military 
pilots report to their permanent duty assignment and complete 
additional unit checkouts. However, the FAA has determined that the 
end-of-course test for graduation from a current U.S. military 
Undergraduate Pilot Training Course is similar in scope and content as 
it was for military pilots when Sec.  61.73 was initially established.
    The FAA proposes new paragraph Sec.  61.73(c) that would establish 
that a military pilot of the Armed Forces of a foreign contracting 
State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation who has been 
assigned pilot duties (for other than for flight training) with the 
U.S. Armed Forces would not be required to first hold a current civil 
pilot license from that contracting State's civil aviation authority. 
The FAA finds there is no safety reason for the existing requirement. 
Thus, foreign military pilots who are assigned to U.S. military units 
would be afforded the opportunity to be issued U.S. commercial pilot 
certificates and ratings appropriate to their military pilot 
qualifications.
    The FAA proposes to amend existing Sec.  61.73(f) and re-designate 
it as paragraph (e). The purpose of this proposal is to further clarify 
that a military pilot may qualify for a type rating to be added to a 
pilot certificate provided there is a comparable civilian type 
designation of that military aircraft.

(42) Proposal to establish a new privilege and procedures for issuing 
flight instructor certificates and ratings to U.S. military instructor 
pilots.

    The FAA proposes to add Sec.  61.73(g) to establish a new privilege 
and procedure for issuing flight instructor certificates and ratings to 
U.S. military instructor pilots who graduate from an U.S. military 
instructor pilot school with an instructor pilot qualification.
    The FAA has been participating in a U.S. Department of Labor 
program that encourages governmental agencies to recognize U.S. 
military training and qualification. For years, the FAA has recognized 
the training and qualifications of U.S. military pilots and has issued 
FAA commercial pilot and instrument rating certification to military 
rated pilots who graduate from a U.S. Armed Forces undergraduate pilot 
training school. The FAA now proposes to issue flight instructor 
certificates and ratings to rated military instructor pilots who 
graduate from an instructor pilot course of the U.S. Armed Forces. To 
be issued a flight instructor certificate and rating, a military 
instructor pilot would have to pass a knowledge test that covers the 
aeronautical knowledge areas listed under Sec.  61.185(a) of this part 
that are appropriate to the military instructor pilot ratings and 
privileges held. This would mean that the applicant would have to pass 
the appropriate knowledge tests that cover the aeronautical knowledge 
areas on:
     Fundamentals of instructing, including the learning 
process, elements of effective teaching, student evaluation and 
testing, course development, lesson planning, and classroom training 
techniques;
     Recreational, private, and commercial pilot certification, 
applicable to the aircraft category for which flight instructor 
privileges are sought; and
     The aeronautical knowledge areas for the instrument rating 
applicable to the category for which instrument flight instructor 
privileges are sought.
    Additionally, a U.S. military instructor pilot would be required to 
show the documentation described in proposed Sec.  61.73(g)(3) to an 
FAA Aviation Safety Inspector, FAA Aviation Safety Technician, or an 
authorized Examiner (this would mean, authorized to issue the flight 
instructor certificate and rating(s) to a U.S. military instructor 
pilot).

(43) Proposal to clarify, simplify, and list the documents required for 
proving rated U.S. military pilot status to qualify for FAA pilot 
certification.

    Proposed Sec.  61.73(h) would clarify, simplify, and list the 
documents required for proving a current or former rated military pilot 
is qualified for FAA pilot certification. The purpose is to respond to 
inquiries received by the FAA on what documents are required to show 
proof as a rated military pilot in the U.S. Armed Forces.

(44) Proposal to require that a foreign pilot who applies for an U.S. 
private pilot certificate on the basis of the person's foreign pilot 
license must hold at least a foreign private pilot license.

    Proposed Sec.  61.75(a) and (b) would require that a foreign pilot 
who applies for an U.S. private pilot certificate on the basis of that 
person's foreign pilot license hold at least a foreign private pilot 
license. Additionally, the proposal would require the foreign pilot 
license to be ``valid,'' which means it has not been surrendered, 
suspended, revoked, or expired.
    Before the August 4, 1997, amendments to part 61 (hereinafter to be 
referred to as the ``1997 Amendments''), Sec.  61.75 provided that to 
apply for a U.S. pilot certificate on the basis of a foreign pilot 
license, the pilot had to hold a foreign pilot license at the level of 
private pilot certificate or higher. The foreign pilot license also had 
to be issued by a member State to the Convention on International Civil 
Aviation. Under the 1997 Amendments, the requirement that the foreign 
pilot license to be at the level of private pilot certificate or higher 
was deleted without considering that there are some foreign countries 
that issue pilot certificates below the private pilot license (i.e., 
recreational pilot licenses, sport pilot licenses, or private pilot 
licenses with a limitation that restricts the exercising of the foreign 
pilot license to a particular foreign country). (See 62 FR 16257 and 
16321). Therefore, the FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.77 (a) and (b) to 
clarify that the foreign pilot license used to apply for the U.S. 
private pilot certificate under the provisions of this section must be 
at a private pilot license level or higher, without geographical 
restrictions, or otherwise meets at least the private pilot licensing 
requirements of Annex 1 of the International Civil Aviation 
Organization.

(45) Proposal to permit the issuance of a U.S. private pilot 
certificate to foreign pilots who hold a U.S. student pilot 
certificate.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.75(b)(3) to clarify that a 
foreign person may apply for a U.S. private pilot certificate if that 
person holds a U.S. student pilot certificate.
    Prior to the 1997 Amendments, Sec.  61.75(b)(3) allowed a U.S. 
pilot certificate to be issued to the holder of a foreign pilot 
certificate if ``he [did] not hold a U.S. pilot certificate of private 
pilot grade or higher.'' When the FAA amended Sec.  61.75(b)(3), it 
deleted the words ``of private pilot grade or higher'' to accommodate 
the recreational pilot

[[Page 5822]]

certificate without considering that this change would seem to 
eliminate foreign persons from being able to hold U.S. student pilot 
certificates. This was unintentional. Thus, under this proposal, we 
want to clarify that a foreign person may hold a U.S. student pilot 
certificate and apply for a Sec.  61.75 U.S. private pilot certificate. 
Furthermore, it should be understood that foreign persons may apply for 
and receive U.S. pilot certificates through the standard part 61 pilot 
certification process or under the special provisions and procedures of 
Sec.  61.75.

(46) Proposal to clarify that an aircraft rating on a pilot certificate 
based on a foreign pilot license is issued for private pilot 
certificate privileges only.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.75(c) to clarify that an 
aircraft rating on a U.S. pilot certificate that was issued on the 
basis of rating(s) held on the person's foreign pilot license is issued 
for private pilot privileges only.
    Before the 1997 Amendments, a person who held a current commercial 
pilot license or higher level foreign pilot license issued by a 
contracting State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation 
(ICAO) could apply for and be issued U.S. commercial pilot certificate 
with the appropriate ratings. When Sec.  61.75 was amended, the rule 
provided for the issuance of a U.S. pilot certificate at the private 
pilot certification level only. Specifically, Sec.  61.75(a) permits a 
holder of a current foreign pilot license issued by a contracting State 
to ICAO to ``apply for and be issued a private pilot certificate with 
the appropriate ratings when the application is based on the foreign 
pilot license * * *.'' However, there is some confusion as to whether 
Sec.  61.75(c) applies to additional ratings for those foreign pilots 
who were issued U.S. pilot certificates under Sec.  61.75. Therefore, 
to further clarify Sec.  61.75(c) so that it conforms to the existing 
requirements of Sec.  61.75(a), which limits the issuance of the U.S. 
pilot certificate to the private pilot certificate, the FAA proposes to 
add the phrase ``for private pilot privileges only'' to Sec.  61.75(c).

(47) Proposal to correct an error under Sec.  61.75 that states ``U.S. 
private pilot certificate'' when it should state ``U.S. pilot 
certificate''.

    Before the 1997 Amendments, the FAA had issued U.S. commercial 
pilot certificates to holders of foreign commercial pilot licenses or 
higher who applied for our U.S. commercial pilot certificate and 
ratings on the basis of Sec.  61.75. When the FAA amended paragraph (e) 
under Sec.  61.75, the rule was changed to read a person who receives a 
``U.S. private pilot certificate.'' The rule, however, needs to account 
for those outstanding foreign pilots who hold U.S. commercial pilot 
certificates. Accordingly, the FAA proposes to amend:
     Paragraph (e) by changing the phrase ``U.S. private pilot 
certificate'' to ``U.S. pilot certificate.''
     Paragraph (e)(1) by amending the phrase ``U.S. private 
pilot privileges'' to ``with the pilot privileges authorized by this 
part and the limitations placed on that U.S. pilot certificate.''
     Paragraph (e)(4) by changing the phrase ``U.S. private 
pilot certificate'' to read ``U.S. pilot certificate.''
     Paragraph (f) of Sec.  61.75 in two places by changing the 
phrase ``may be used as basis for issuing a U.S. private pilot 
certificate'' to read ``may be used as basis for issuing a U.S. pilot 
certificate.'' And in the second sentence change the phrase ``used as a 
basis for issuing a U.S. private pilot certificate'' to ``used as a 
basis for issuing a U.S. pilot certificate.''
     The title phrase of paragraph (g) under Sec.  61.75; where 
it states ``Limitation placed on a U.S. private pilot certificate,'' it 
would read ``Limitation placed on a U.S. pilot certificate.'' The FAA 
proposes to amend paragraph (g) in two other places by revising the 
phrase that reads ``A U.S. private pilot certificate issued under this 
section'' to read ``A U.S. pilot certificate issued under this 
section.'' And, where it reads ``upon which the issuance of the U.S. 
private pilot certificate,'' it would be changed to read ``upon which 
the issuance of the U.S. pilot certificate.''

(48) Proposal to clarify the requirements for issuance of Special 
Purpose Pilot Authorizations.

    The FAA proposes to amend various paragraphs under Sec.  61.77 to 
address some confusion about the special purpose pilot authorizations 
and correct some inconsistencies. The special purpose pilot 
authorization is a letter issued by the FAA to a foreign pilot for the 
purpose of performing pilot duties on a civil aircraft of U.S. registry 
that is leased to a person who is not a citizen of the United States 
and for carrying persons or property for compensation or hire.
    Ever since Sec.  61.77 was last revised under the 1997 Amendments, 
there has been confusion as to who could be issued a special purpose 
pilot authorization and what kind of operations are permitted under a 
special purpose pilot authorization. See 62 FR 16220. For example, the 
FAA discovered that a foreign corporate operator had been issued 
special purpose pilot authorizations in error. The FAA never intended 
that special purpose pilot authorizations be issued to foreign 
corporate operators that are not performing the carriage of persons or 
property for compensation or hire. Foreign pilots involved in part 91 
operations have the ability to apply for and receive U.S. pilot 
certificates in accordance with Sec.  61.75 or through the standard 
part 61 pilot certification process. Therefore, the FAA proposes to add 
Sec.  61.77(a)(2)(i) through (iv) to clarify what kind of operations 
foreign pilots are required to be performing to be eligible for a 
special purpose pilot authorization.
    Additionally, the FAA determined that the citizenship or resident 
status requirement under existing Sec.  61.77(b)(1) conflicts with the 
policy authorizing holders of foreign pilot licenses to serve as pilots 
in U.S. registered aircraft for the kinds of flight operations covered 
by special purpose pilot authorizations. Thus, the citizenship or 
resident status requirement is unnecessary. The proposal would delete 
the phrase ``from which the person holds citizenship or resident 
status'' under Sec.  61.77(b)(1) because some pilots of foreign air 
carriers do not even hold citizenship or resident status in the country 
from which they hold their pilot licenses, as is the case of U. S. 
citizens who serve as flight crewmembers aboard U.S. registered 
aircraft for foreign air carriers. Therefore, we have determined this 
requirement in Sec.  61.77(b)(1) is burdensome and unnecessary.
    Furthermore, the FAA proposes to delete Sec.  61.77(b)(5) (i.e., a 
recent flight experience requirement under Sec.  61.57 to be issued a 
special purpose pilot authorization) because the normal procedure for 
issuing special purpose pilot authorizations requires the foreign air 
carriers only to send the application and copies of the person's 
foreign pilot and medical licenses to the FAA and does not require the 
airman to appear in person to the FAA. The FAA has no way of 
determining whether the pilot has complied with Sec.  61.57 currency 
requirements. Therefore, the FAA proposes to delete existing Sec.  
61.77(b)(5).

(49) Proposal to require a student pilot certificate to apply for a 
recreational pilot certificate.

    Proposed Sec.  61.96(b)(9) would require a person to hold a student 
pilot certificate to apply for a recreational pilot certificate. The 
FAA believes the rules implicitly require a person to hold a student 
pilot certificate before making application for a recreational pilot 
certificate. To apply for a recreational

[[Page 5823]]

pilot certificate, an applicant must log at least 3 hours of solo 
flight time. See 14 CFR Sec.  61.99(b). To operate an aircraft in solo 
flight, the person must hold at least a student pilot certificate. See 
14 CFR Sec.  61.87(l)(1). However, to avoid confusion, we are proposing 
to explicitly require a person to hold a student pilot certificate 
before applying for a recreational pilot certificate.

(50) Proposal to allow recreational pilot certificate holders to act as 
PIC in rotorcraft with more than a 180 horsepower powerplant.

    Currently, holders of recreational pilot certificates are limited 
from acting as PIC of an aircraft that is certificated ``with a 
powerplant of more than 180 horsepower.'' The purpose for the more than 
180 horsepower powerplant limitation is to keep recreational pilot 
certificate holders in slower, less complex aircraft. The FAA has 
determined that the 180 horsepower powerplant limitation is not 
appropriate for helicopters or gyroplanes. For example, the Bell 47 is 
a 1950-era helicopter that is simple in design and quite easy to fly. 
However, because some Bell 47 helicopters' engines exceed the 180 
horsepower rating, holders of recreational pilot certificates are 
restricted from acting as PIC of those helicopters. Therefore, the FAA 
proposes to amend Sec.  61.101(e)(1)(iii) to exclude aircraft that are 
certificated in the rotorcraft category from the 180 horsepower 
powerplant limitation. The 180 horsepower powerplant limitation would 
only apply to aircraft certificated in the airplane category.

(51) Proposal that a person must hold either a student pilot 
certificate or a recreational pilot certificate to apply for a private 
pilot certificate.

    Proposed Sec.  61.103(j) would require a person to hold either a 
student pilot certificate or a recreational pilot certificate to apply 
for a private pilot certificate.
    The rules implicitly require a person to either hold a student 
pilot or recreational pilot certificate before making application for a 
private pilot certificate. To apply for a private pilot certificate, an 
applicant must log at least 10 hours of solo flight time. See 14 CFR 
Sec.  61.109. To operate an aircraft in solo flight, the person must 
hold at least a student pilot certificate. See 14 CFR Sec.  
61.87(l)(1). However, to address any possible confusion, the proposed 
change would explicitly require that a person hold either a student 
pilot certificate or a recreational pilot certificate to apply for a 
private pilot certificate.

(52) Proposal to amend the solo cross-country mileage requirements for 
consistency with the mileage requirements under the definition of 
``cross-country.''

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.109(a)(5)(ii), (b)(5)(ii), and 
(e)(5)(ii) to standardize use of the term ``cross-country'' throughout 
part 61. Under Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(ii), the FAA defines the distance of a 
cross-country flight, in pertinent part, as ``more than 50 nautical 
miles.'' Under Sec.  61.109(a)(5)(ii), (b)(5)(ii), and (e)(5)(ii), the 
regulations erroneously state, ``of at least 50 nautical miles'' 
(emphasis added). The proposal amends all definitions of ``cross-
country'' to read ``more than 50 nautical miles.''

(53) Proposal to amend the solo cross-country mileage requirement for 
the private pilot-helicopter rating.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.109(c)(4)(ii) so the cross-
country distance requirement for the helicopter rating at the private 
pilot certification level conforms to the ICAO requirements for the 
helicopter rating and also conforms to the definition of cross-country 
distance under Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(v).
    The existing solo cross-country distance requirement under Sec.  
61.109(c)(4)(ii) for the private pilot-helicopter rating states that 
the solo cross-country flight must be ``at least 75 nautical miles 
total distance.'' The ICAO requirements, set forth under Annex I, 
paragraph 2.7.1.3.2 require that the total distance be at least 100 
nautical miles total distance. Therefore, the FAA proposes to amend the 
private pilot-helicopter rating requirement to conform to the ICAO 
requirement.
    Additionally, the helicopter rating for private pilot certification 
under Sec.  61.109(c)(4)(ii) erroneously states ``of at least 25 
nautical miles.'' The FAA proposes to amend the rules to read ``more 
than 25 nautical miles'' to conform to the definition of ``cross-
country'' under Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(v).

(54) Proposal to amend the solo cross-country mileage requirement for 
the private pilot-gyroplane rating.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.109(d)(4)(ii) to conform the 
cross-country distance for the gyroplane rating at the private pilot 
certification level to the ICAO requirements for the gyroplane rating 
and to Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(v).
    The existing solo cross-country distance requirement for the 
private pilot-gyroplane rating states that the solo cross-country 
flight must be ``at least 75 nautical miles total distance.'' The ICAO 
requirements, set forth under Annex I, paragraph 2.7.1.3.2, require 
that the total distance be at least 100 nautical miles total distance. 
Therefore, the FAA proposes to amend the cross-country distance for the 
private pilot-gyroplane rating to conform to the ICAO cross-country 
distance requirement for the gyroplane rating at the private pilot 
certification level.
    Additionally, the gyroplane rating for private pilot certification 
under Sec.  61.109(d)(4)(ii) erroneously states ``of at least 25 
nautical miles.'' The proposal would amend the rules to read ``more 
than 25 nautical miles'' in conformance with the definition of ``cross-
country'' under Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(v).

(55) Proposal to add requirements for ground reference maneuvers for 
commercial pilot certification--gyroplane rating.

    Proposed Sec.  61.127(b)(4)(vi) would require training in ``ground 
reference maneuvers'' for the gyroplane rating at the commercial pilot 
certification level. When the FAA amended the area of operations under 
Sec.  61.127 for the gyroplane rating at the commercial pilot 
certification level, the reference to ``ground reference maneuvers'' 
was deleted. After further review of that decision, the FAA proposes to 
re-instate ``ground reference maneuvers'' as an area of operation for 
the gyroplane rating at the commercial pilot certification level 
because it is believed by both the agency and training providers to be 
an important training and certification task. The ground reference 
maneuvers must include at least ``eights around a pylon,'' ``eights 
along a road,'' ``rectangular course,'' ``S-turns,'' and ``turns around 
a point.''

(56) Proposal to delete the requirement for the ``ground reference 
maneuver'' in the area of operation for commercial pilot 
certification--powered-lift rating.

    The FAA proposes to delete the requirement for the ``ground 
reference maneuver'' area of operation under Sec.  61.127(b)(5)(vii) 
for the powered-lift rating at the commercial pilot certification 
level. An FAA Flight Standardization Board determined the ``ground 
reference maneuver'' is not appropriate for the powered-lift rating at 
the commercial pilot certification level.

(57) Proposal to clarify the tasks required for ``instrument training'' 
for commercial pilot certification--airplane single-engine rating.

    Ever since the instrument aeronautical experience requirement was 
adopted under Sec.  61.129 by the 1997 Amendments, we have received

[[Page 5824]]

questions about what is the appropriate training for instrument 
aeronautical experience. Therefore, we are proposing Sec.  
61.129(a)(3)(i) to clarify the tasks required for ``instrument 
aeronautical experience'' for the airplane single-engine rating at the 
commercial pilot certification level. Under this proposal, ``instrument 
aeronautical experience'' would include at least ``10 hours of 
instrument training, of which at least five hours must be in a single-
engine airplane and must include training using a view-limiting device 
for attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from 
unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems.''

(58) Proposal to clarify the tasks required for ``instrument training'' 
for commercial pilot certification--airplane multiengine rating.

    As discussed above in paragraph 57, the regulated community has 
asked the FAA to clarify what is considered appropriate training to 
cover instrument aeronautical experience. Therefore, we are proposing 
Sec.  61.129(b)(3)(i) to clarify the tasks required for ``instrument 
training'' for the airplane multiengine rating at the commercial pilot 
certification level. This proposal would include at least ``10 hours of 
instrument training, of which at least five hours must be in a 
multiengine airplane and must include training using a view-limiting 
device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems.''

(59) Proposal to allow use of a flight simulator, flight training 
device, or PCATD for some of the instrument training required for 
commercial pilot certification--helicopter rating.

    Proposed Sec.  61.129(c)(3)(i) would allow the instrument training 
that is required for the helicopter rating at the commercial pilot 
certification level to be performed in an aircraft, flight simulator, 
flight training device, or PCATD.
    Additionally, the FAA proposes to clarify, in response to questions 
raised by the regulated community, the training required to satisfy 
instrument training for the helicopter rating at the commercial pilot 
certification level. The instrument training would include at least ``5 
hours of instrument training and must include training using a view-
limiting device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, 
recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems.''

(60) Proposal to allow use of a flight simulator, flight training 
device, or PCATD for some of the instrument training required for 
commercial pilot certification--gyroplane rating.

    Proposed Sec.  61.129(d)(3)(i) would reduce the number of hours of 
instrument training required from 5 to 2.5 hours, and allow the 
instrument training required for the gyroplane rating at the commercial 
pilot certification level to be performed in an aircraft, flight 
simulator, flight training device, or PCATD. The FAA believes that the 
training for the commercial pilot--gyroplane rating would be more 
useful if the training focused on other tasks. We recognize that 
gyroplanes are normally not sufficiently equipped for instrument flight 
operations and are flown mostly in day-VMC conditions.
    Additionally, the FAA proposes to clarify, because of the number of 
questions we have received, the instrument training required to satisfy 
the ``instrument training'' required for the gyroplane rating at the 
commercial pilot certification level. The instrument training would 
have to include at least 2.5 hours of instrument training, including 
training using a view-limiting device for attitude instrument flying, 
partial panel skills, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and 
intercepting and tracking navigational systems.

(61) Proposal to clarify the tasks required for ``instrument training'' 
for commercial pilot certification--powered-lift rating.

    To respond to questions we have received regarding what tasks are 
required to constitute ``instrument training,'' we are proposing Sec.  
61.129(e)(3)(i) for the powered-lift rating at the commercial pilot 
certification level. This proposal would require at least ``10 hours of 
instrument training, of which at least five hours must be in a powered-
lift and must include training using a view-limiting device for 
attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational systems.''

(62) Proposal to allow cross-country training flights to be performed 
under VFR or IFR.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.129(a)(3)(iii) and (iv), 
(b)(3)(iii) and (iv), (c)(3)(ii) and (iii), (d)(3)(ii), (e)(3)(ii) and 
(iii), (g)(4)(ii) and (iii) to allow the required cross-country flights 
for commercial pilot certification to be performed under VFR or IFR.
    Currently, Sec.  61.129 requires one cross-country flight in day 
VFR conditions and one cross-country flight in night VFR conditions. 
Since establishing these cross-country training requirements, the FAA 
has received comments from training schools requesting that we allow 
flights to be performed under IFR. According to the schools, most 
applicants for commercial pilot certification--airplane rating and some 
applicants for the helicopter rating are enrolled in an instrument 
rating course at the same time they are undergoing their commercial 
pilot certification training. Thus, it would make sense to allow the 
cross-country training requirements under Sec.  61.129 to be performed 
under IFR. The FAA agrees and is proposing to allow the cross-country 
training requirements under Sec.  61.129 for commercial pilot 
certification for the airplane, rotorcraft, powered-lift, and airship 
ratings to be performed under VFR or IFR.

(63) Proposal to delete the night training requirement for commercial 
pilot certification--gyroplane rating.

    The FAA proposes to delete the night cross-country aeronautical 
experience requirement under Sec.  61.129(d)(3)(iii) for the gyroplane 
rating at the commercial pilot certification level. The FAA is 
proposing to replace the night cross-country aeronautical experience 
requirement with 2 hours of flight training at night that consists of 
ten takeoffs and ten landings at an airport. The reason for this 
proposal is that night-time training for the gyroplane rating at the 
commercial pilot certification level would be more useful and more 
safely conducted in the vicinity of an airport. Gyroplanes have limited 
equipment and systems for night-time operations, and a cross country 
flight raises some added safety concerns in gyroplanes with their 
limited instrument flight and navigation capabilities.

(64) Proposal to amend the commercial pilot certification solo 
aeronautical experience requirements to allow the aeronautical 
experience to be performed either solo or while performing the duties 
of PIC with an instructor on board.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.129(a)(4), (c)(4), (d)(4), 
(e)(4), and (g)(2) to allow the commercial pilot certification 
aeronautical experience to be conducted either solo or while performing 
the duties of PIC with an instructor on board. Even though the 
commercial pilot certification aeronautical experience requirements for 
a multiengine airplane rating allow

[[Page 5825]]

the aeronautical experience requirements to be conducted either solo or 
with an authorized instructor on board (see Sec.  61.129(b)(4)), the 
solo aeronautical experience requirements were purposely written 
differently for other aircraft categories. This is because comments 
received in response to Notice No. 95-11 (60 FR 41160, August 11, 1995) 
indicated that some insurance policies prohibit persons who do not 
already hold the multiengine airplane category and class rating on 
their pilot certificate from flying solo in multiengine airplanes.
    Since the adoption of Sec.  61.129, the FAA has learned that some 
operators of the other categories and classes of aircraft also have the 
same insurance policy restrictions. Many of these aircraft operators 
also believe the solo provisions for commercial pilot certification--
multiengine airplane rating that permit the training to be performed 
solo or with an instructor to be on board while the applicant is 
performing the duties of PIC in a multiengine airplane is beneficial in 
teaching crew resource management. Some operators have said that they 
would be agreeable to their commercial pilot applicants practicing 
abnormal and emergency procedures if the applicant's instructor was on 
board. Therefore, the FAA proposes to allow commercial pilot 
certification for the single-engine airplane, helicopter, gyroplane, 
powered-lift, and airship ratings to be performed either solo or while 
performing the duties of PIC with an authorized instructor aboard.

(65) Proposal to clarify the tasks required for the ``instrument 
training'' for commercial pilot certification--airship rating.

    Ever since the instrument aeronautical experience requirement was 
adopted under Sec.  61.129 by the 1997 Amendments, we have received 
questions about what is considered appropriate training to cover 
instrument aeronautical experience. Proposed Sec.  61.129(g)(3)(i) 
would clarify the tasks required for ``instrument training'' for the 
airship rating at the commercial pilot certification level to include 
the use of a view-limiting device for attitude instrument flying, 
partial panel skills, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and 
intercepting and tracking navigational systems.

(66) Proposal to revise the ATP eligibility requirements for persons 
holding foreign commercial or ATP pilot licenses.

    The FAA proposes to make minor revisions to Sec.  61.153(d)(3), the 
ATP eligibility requirements for persons holding foreign commercial or 
ATP pilot licenses, by including the requirement that the foreign 
commercial or ATP pilot license must contain no geographical 
limitations. The FAA has determined that a foreign applicant for the 
U.S. ATP certificate should not be qualified if the foreign ATP license 
has a geographical limitation.

(67) Proposal to move the provisions for use and limitations of a 
flight simulator and flight training device from the ATP flight 
proficiency requirements of Sec.  61.157 to the new proposed Sec.  
61.64 and to make other clarifying revisions.

    The FAA proposes to reword proposed Sec.  61.157(g) (existing 
paragraph (j)) to clarify the use of an aircraft on a practical test 
for a type rating that is not capable of instrument maneuvers and 
procedures and the issuance of a type rating with a VFR limitation 
under those circumstances. This proposal parallels the proposed change 
under Sec.  61.63(e).
    Additionally, this proposal would remove paragraphs (g), (h), and 
(i) that address the use and limitations of a flight simulator and 
flight training device and move those requirements under proposed Sec.  
61.64.

(68) Proposal to allow an applicant for a type rating at the ATP 
certification level in a multiengine, single-pilot station airplane to 
meet the requirements of this part in a multi-seat version of a 
multiengine airplane.

    Proposed Sec.  61.157(h) would require an applicant for a type 
rating at the ATP certification level for a multiengine airplane with 
single-pilot station to perform the practical test in the multi-pilot 
seat version of that multiengine airplane. Or, the practical test may 
be performed in the single-seat version of that airplane if the 
Examiner is in a position to observe the applicant during the practical 
test in the case where there is no multi-seat version of that 
multiengine airplane. This proposal parallels proposed Sec.  61.63(f) 
for a type rating in a multi-engine airplane with single-pilot station 
at other than the ATP certification level.

(69) Proposal to allow an applicant for a type rating at the ATP 
certification level in a single-engine, single-pilot station airplane 
to meet the requirements of this part in a multi-seat version of a 
single-engine airplane.

    Proposed Sec.  61.157(i) would require an applicant for a type 
rating at the ATP certification level for a single engine airplane with 
single-pilot station to perform the practical test in the multi-pilot 
seat version of that single engine airplane. Or, the practical test may 
be performed in the single-seat version of that airplane if the 
Examiner is in a position to observe the applicant during the practical 
test in the case where there is no multi-seat version of that single 
engine airplane. This proposal parallels proposed Sec.  61.63(g) for a 
type rating in a single engine airplane with single-pilot station at 
other than the ATP certification level.

(70) Proposal to allow U.S. military flight engineers to credit flight 
engineer time when applying for an ATP pilot certificate.

    Proposed Sec.  61.159(c)(3) would allow a U.S. military flight 
engineer to credit flight engineer time toward the aeronautical 
experience requirements for an ATP certificate. Under existing Sec.  
61.159(c)(2), a flight engineer who is employed by part 121 operator is 
allowed to credit flight engineer time toward an ATP certificate. Thus, 
the proposed change would give military flight engineers the same 
opportunity.

(71) Proposal to conform ATP aeronautical experience requirements to 
ICAO requirements.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.159(d) and (e) to conform to 
current ICAO requirements for the ATP aeronautical experience 
requirements for the airplane category as stated in paragraphs 2.1.9.2 
and 2.5.1.3 of the Personnel Licensing, ICAO Annex 1, to the Convention 
on International Civil Aviation.
    For the past few years, the FAA has received inquiries as to 
whether applicants for an ATP certificate with the ICAO limitation 
``Holder does not meet the pilot in command aeronautical experience 
requirements of ICAO'' must have 1,500 hours of total time as a pilot 
or 1,200 hours of flight time as a pilot as stated in existing Sec.  
61.159(d)(2). The current FAA regulation applies an obsolete ICAO ATP 
airplane aeronautical experience rule. Before 1974, ICAO only required 
1,200 hours of total flight time to qualify for an ATP certificate in 
the airplane category. In 1974, ICAO amended its ATP aeronautical 
experience requirements for the airplane category to require 1,500 
hours of flight time as a pilot and retained the additional qualifying 
aeronautical experience requirements of only permitting 50 percent of 
an applicant's second-in-command time to be credited and none of an 
applicant's flight-engineer time could be credited (see paragraphs 
2.1.9 and 2.5.1.3 of ICAO Annex 1, Personnel Licensing). This proposed 
change would conform

[[Page 5826]]

the FAA regulations to the existing ICAO standard.

(72) Proposal to delete the flight instructor-glider flight proficiency 
maneuver known as the ``go around'' task.

    The FAA proposes to delete the flight instructor-glider flight 
proficiency maneuver known as the ``go around'' under Sec.  
61.187(b)(6)(vii) because non-powered gliders are not capable of a go-
around maneuver.

(73) Proposal to establish flight instructor qualifications for 
providing instrument training in flight at the commercial pilot and ATP 
certification levels.

    It is necessary to clarify the flight instructor qualifications for 
those who give instrument training at the commercial pilot and ATP 
certification levels. For example, existing Sec.  61.129 requires 10 
hours of instrument training for the airplane-single-engine, airplane-
multiengine, helicopter, gyroplane, powered-lift, and airship ratings 
at the commercial pilot certification levels. Yet, under existing Sec.  
61.195(c), the FAA established flight instructor instrument 
qualification requirements only for flight instructors who give 
instrument training for ``the issuance of an instrument rating or a 
type rating not limited to VFR.'' The existing regulation does not 
specifically address the flight instructor qualifications for providing 
instrument training for the commercial pilot and ATP certification 
levels. Therefore, the FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.195(c) to 
establish that a flight instructor who provides instrument training 
required at the commercial pilot and airline transport pilot 
certification levels must hold an instrument rating on both his or her 
pilot and flight instructor certificates that are appropriate to the 
category and class of aircraft in which instrument training is being 
provided.

(74) Proposal to delete an endorsement requirement on a student pilot 
certificate for solo flight into Class B airspace.

    The FAA proposes to delete the requirement under Sec.  61.195(d)(3) 
that a flight instructor must endorse a student pilot's certificate to 
authorize a solo flight in a Class B airspace area or at an airport 
within Class B airspace. Under existing Sec.  61.95(a)(2) and (b)(2), a 
student pilot is required only to have his or her logbook endorsed when 
seeking authorization to perform solo flight in Class B airspace or at 
an airport within Class B airspace. This change would make the flight 
instructor endorsement requirement parallel the student pilot 
endorsement requirements of existing Sec.  61.95(a)(2) and (b)(2).

(75) Proposal to establish flight instructor night vision goggle 
qualification requirements for a flight instructor.

    The FAA proposes to add paragraph (k) to Sec.  61.195 to establish 
qualification requirements for a flight instructor to give PIC 
qualification and recent training for NVG operations. The FAA proposes 
that an instructor who gives PIC qualification and recent training for 
NVG operations must meet the following eligibility requirements:
     Has a pilot and flight instructor certificate with the 
applicable category and class rating for the training.
     If appropriate, has a type rating on his or her pilot 
certificate for the aircraft.
     Is pilot-in-command qualified for NVG operations, in 
accordance with Sec.  61.31(l).
     Has logged 100 NVG operations as the sole manipulator of 
the controls.
     Has logged 20 NVG operations as sole manipulator of the 
controls in the category and class, and type, if class and type is 
appropriate, of aircraft that the will be given in.
     Is qualified and current to act as a pilot in command in 
NVG operations under Sec.  61.57(f) or (g).
     Has a logbook endorsement from an FAA Aviation Safety 
Inspector or a person who is authorized by the FAA to provide that 
logbook endorsement that states the flight instructor is authorized to 
perform the NVG pilot in command qualification and recent flight 
experience requirements under Sec.  61.31(l) and Sec.  61.57(f) and 
(g).
    The FAA has developed these requirements in consultation with 
industry representatives.

(76) Proposal to allow only a ground instructor with an instrument 
rating to give ground training for the issuance of an instrument rating 
and instrument proficiency check and a recommendation for the knowledge 
test required for an instrument rating.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  61.215(b) to provide that only a 
certified ground instructor with an instrument rating may give ground 
training for the issuance of an instrument rating and instrument 
proficiency check and a recommendation for the knowledge test required 
for an instrument rating. Existing Sec.  61.215(b) mistakenly permits a 
person who holds only an advanced ground instructor (AGI) certificate 
to give instrument training. The aeronautical knowledge subject areas 
for the AGI certificate do not cover instrument subjects on the 
knowledge test. Only the aeronautical knowledge subject areas for the 
instrument ground instructor (IGI) certificate cover instrument 
subjects. Authorizing instrument privileges to a holder of only an AGI 
certificate is not appropriate.

(77) Proposal to clarify the recent experience requirements for ground 
instructors.

    The FAA proposes to revise Sec.  61.217(a) to clarify the recent 
experience requirements for ground instructors, particularly the 
meaning of the phrase ``served for at least three months as a ground 
instructor.'' This proposal would delete this phrase and establish more 
general criteria for recent experience requirements. The intent is to 
recognize a person's employment or activity as a ground instructor 
without that person being expected to maintain some kind of a time 
sheet or log to show that he or she ``served for at least three months 
as a ground instructor.''
    Furthermore, under this proposal, the FAA would amend Sec.  
61.19(e) so that the flight instructor certificate's duration period is 
linked to these currency requirements.

(78) Proposal to establish night vision goggle instrument and equipment 
requirements for night vision goggle operations.

    The FAA proposes to add Sec.  91.205(h) to establish NVG 
instruments and equipment requirements for NVG operations. This 
proposal is similar to how the FAA requires certain instruments and 
equipment for VFR (day), VFR (night), and IFR operations under existing 
Sec.  91.205. This proposal would state that for NVG flight operations, 
the following instruments and equipment are required to be installed in 
the aircraft, are required to be functioning in a normal manner, and 
must be approved for use by the FAA:
     Instruments and equipment specified in Sec.  91.205(b), 
and, for night flight, instruments and equipment specified in Sec.  
91.205(c).
     NVGs.
     Interior and exterior aircraft lighting system required 
for use for NVG flight operations.
     Two-way radio communications system.
     Gyroscopic pitch and bank indicator (artificial horizon).
     Generator or alternator of adequate capacity for the 
required instruments and equipment.

[[Page 5827]]

(79) Proposal to clarify that the ``counters'' for a pilot school's or 
provisional pilot school's 80 percent or higher pass rate must be 10 
different people.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  141.5 to clarify the meaning of the 
phrase ``a quality of training pass rate of at least 80 percent.'' The 
purpose is to establish that the ``counters'' for the required 80 
percent or higher school pass rate must be taken from 10 different 
graduates, meaning 10 different people.
    A graduate can only be counted once in computing the 80 percent 
pass rate on the first attempt. The wording of existing Sec.  141.5 has 
raised questions concerning how many graduates have to have graduated. 
Some have argued that one person could be counted as all 10 graduates. 
The FAA disagrees and proposes to amend Sec.  141.5 to clarify that the 
10 graduates must be 10 different people. The FAA believes that 
requiring the pass rate to be calculated from 10 different graduates is 
a better measure of the school's quality of training and provides a 
more realistic view of the school's pass rate.

(80) Proposal to clarify pilot school examining authority.

    The FAA has found it necessary to revise the language under Sec.  
141.9 because some have misunderstood the rule and believe that when 
the FAA issues examining authority to a pilot school, it authorizes 
examining authority for all the training courses of that school. This 
is not true. The FAA provides examining authority on a course-by-course 
basis. This would mean, if the pilot school makes specific application 
for a course, the FAA will issue examining authority if it meets the 
qualification requirements of Sec.  141.63.
    Furthermore, the FAA only issues examining authority to a pilot 
school that meets the requirements of subpart D of part 141, as opposed 
to a provisional pilot school. Under Sec.  141.63, a provisional pilot 
school is not qualified to receive examining authority.

(81) Proposal to reduce the number of student enrollments to qualify 
for a check instructor position.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  141.33(d)(2) to reduce the number 
of student enrollments from 50 students to 10 students in a part 141 
pilot school to qualify for check instructor positions. The FAA is 
responding positively to recommendations it has received from the pilot 
school industry to authorize the use of check instructors in some of 
the smaller pilot schools.
    The FAA initially established the figure of 50 student enrollments 
when it promulgated Sec.  141.33(d)(2) to provide for those flight 
schools that train large numbers of students. (See 62 FR 16350, April 
4, 1997) The position of check instructor was established because the 
FAA understands it is nearly impossible to expect chief instructors and 
assistant chief instructors to perform all the required stage checks, 
end-of-course tests, and instructor proficiency checks in large pilot 
schools. However, since the adoption of Sec.  141.33(d)(2), a number of 
moderate sized flight schools have informed the FAA that they have 
sufficient student activity to justify check instructors. For example, 
one chief instructor commented that his school has 15 student 
enrollments and each student requires six stage checks and one end-of-
course test. Thus, he is required to perform 105 tests on his school's 
15 student enrollments. Another chief instructor commented that he has 
15 stage and end-of-course tests per student in his part 141 approved 
course. This computes to a total of 300 tests he must perform.
    The FAA has made it clear that it did not expect the chief and 
assistant chief instructors to delegate all their duties and 
responsibilities to the check instructors See 62 FR 16350, April 4, 
1997. The FAA encourages and expects chief and assistant chief 
instructors to continue to have direct experience with monitoring the 
quality of instruction and student performance in their schools. The 
FAA expects the school's chief and assistant chief instructors to 
continue checking their instructors' quality of training and their 
students' performance. However, the FAA recognizes that this can be 
done by sampling instructor proficiency and student performance. The 
FAA does not believe it is necessary to establish a regulatory 
requirement on the numbers of stage checks, end-of-course tests, and 
instructor proficiency checks that each chief instructor or assistant 
chief instructor must perform. That decision should be left to the 
school's management. Therefore, the FAA proposes to reduce the number 
of student enrollments to qualify for the creation of a check 
instructor position to ten students. A minimum of ten student 
enrollments would allow for check instructor positions to be designated 
for the medium-sized and the smaller pilot schools.

(82) Proposal to accommodate the use of foreign registered aircraft for 
part 141 training facilities that are located outside of the United 
States.

    The FAA proposes to amend Sec.  141.39(b) to allow the use of 
foreign registered aircraft for part 141 training facilities that are 
located outside of the U.S. and conduct training outside of the U.S.
    Under Amendment No. 141-11 (63 FR 53532, October 5, 1998) , the FAA 
allowed part 141 schools to establish training facilities outside the 
United States. The FAA has received several inquiries as to whether it 
is permissible to use foreign registered aircraft when the schools' 
training facilities are located outside of the United States. Further, 
questions have arisen whether it is permissible for these pilot 
schools' training facilities to adhere to maintenance and inspection 
standards established by a foreign aviation authority and still be in 
compliance with Sec.  141.39.
    Pilot schools are currently required to use civil aircraft of U.S. 
registry. Existing Sec.  141.39 only allows a pilot school's 
maintenance and inspection standards to be maintained under part 91, 
subpart E. The FAA, however, wants to accommodate the use of foreign 
registered aircraft and foreign maintenance and inspection standards 
established by a foreign aviation authority in pilot schools located 
outside of the United States when the training is conducted outside the 
United States. The FAA does not believe there are any potential adverse 
effects on aviation safety by proposing these changes.

(83) Proposal to delete Sec.  141.53(c)(1) because the requirement is 
no longer needed.

    The FAA proposes to delete the provision under Sec.  141.53(c)(1) 
that states ``A training course submitted for approval prior to August 
4, 1997 may, if approved, retain that approval until 1 year after 
August 4, 1997'' because the requirement is no longer needed. All 
courses under part 141 had to receive their re-approval as of August 4, 
1998, so the provision is obsolete.

(84) Proposal to clarify the requirement for approval of a training 
course.

    For clarification purposes, the FAA proposes to change the phrase 
``the practical or knowledge test, or any combination thereof'' under 
Sec.  141.55(e)(2)(ii) to read ``the practical or knowledge test, as 
appropriate.'' When a pilot school requests final approval for a 
knowledge training

[[Page 5828]]

course, at least 80 percent of their students must have passed the 
knowledge test on the first attempt (knowledge test means ``a test on 
the aeronautical knowledge areas required for an airman certificate or 
rating that can be administered in written form or by a computer''). 
When a pilot school requests final approval for a flight training 
course, at least 80 percent of their students must have passed the 
practical test on the first attempt (practical test means ``a test on 
the areas of operations for an airman certificate, rating, or 
authorization that is conducted by having the applicant respond to 
questions and demonstrate maneuvers in flight, in a flight simulator, 
or in a flight training device''). The current language is confusing 
and the testing requirements have been misapplied.

(85) Proposal to clarify the rules for crediting previous training when 
transferring to a part 141 pilot school.

    The FAA proposes to clarify Sec.  141.77(c) for crediting previous 
training based on a proficiency test or a knowledge test. Existing 
Sec.  141.77(c) provides that, for students who transfer to a part 141 
pilot school, crediting for previous training must be based on ``a 
proficiency test or knowledge test, or both.'' This language has 
generated questions about whether it is possible to credit previous 
flight training strictly on the basis of knowledge test results. The 
answer is no. The FAA never intended to allow a transfer student to be 
awarded flight training credit purely on the basis of completing a 
knowledge test. Nor did the FAA intend to allow a transfer student to 
be awarded ground training credit on the basis of completing a 
proficiency test.
    A student who transfers to a part 141 pilot school and requests 
credit for previous flight training must complete a proficiency test 
that is given by the receiving pilot school's chief instructor or 
delegated check instructor. A student who transfers to a part 141 pilot 
school and requests credit for previous ground training, must complete 
a knowledge test that is given by the receiving pilot school's chief 
instructor or delegated check instructor.

(86) Proposal to allow the chief instructor to delegate certain tasks 
to a recommending instructor.

    Under this proposed change, the FAA would allow a chief instructor 
to delegate certification of a student's training record, graduation 
certificate, stage check, end-of-course test report, and recommendation 
for course completion to an assistant chief instructor or recommending 
instructor. The reason for this proposed change is to allow pilot 
schools to make better use of chief instructors' time and management 
responsibilities.

(87) Proposal to amend the eligibility requirement for enrollment in 
the flight portion of a private pilot certification course.

    Under the current rules, the FAA requires a person hold at least a 
recreational or student pilot certificate before enrolling in the 
flight portion of the private pilot certification course. This means 
that a person must complete his or her medical licensing before 
beginning flight training. Many pilot schools have indicated that they 
would like the rule changed because (1) it affects their ability to 
credit orientation flights towards overall training requirements (it is 
common practice when a person inquires about flight training to provide 
that person a local orientation flight); and (2) for those pilot 
schools that are located in remote areas, it may take a week or two for 
a student to get an appointment for a flight physical.
    The FAA has evaluated the request made by the pilot schools, and we 
do not believe there are any safety concerns with accommodating the 
recommendation. Thus, the FAA is proposing that under part 141, 
appendix B, paragraph 2, a person is required to hold a recreational or 
student pilot certificate to begin the solo phase of the private pilot 
certification course but not for the flight portion of the 
certification course.

(88) Proposal to conform references to instrument training in the 
private pilot courses to instrument training for private pilot 
certification for the airplane and powered-lift ratings.

    The FAA proposes to amend part 141, appendix B, 4(b)(1)(iii), 
4(b)(2)(iii), and 4(b)(5)(iii) of the private pilot certification 
courses for the airplane single-engine, airplane multiengine, and 
powered-lift ratings, to mirror the requirements for private pilot 
certification for the single-engine airplane, multiengine airplane, or 
powered-lift ratings under existing Sec.  61.109.

(89) Proposal to conform the solo cross-country mileage requirement in 
a private pilot-airplane single-engine rating course to the definition 
of ``cross-country.''

    The FAA proposes to amend the solo cross-country distance 
requirement in paragraph 5(a)(1) of appendix B to part 141 for the 
private pilot certification--airplane single-engine rating course from 
requiring a flight of ``at least 50 nautical miles'' to ``more than 50 
nautical miles.'' This proposal is to conform the distance requirement 
under this provision to the definition of ``cross-country'' under Sec.  
61.1(b)(3)(ii).

(90) Proposal to conform the solo cross-country mileage requirement in 
an approved private pilot-airplane multiengine rating course to the 
definition of ``cross-country.''

    The FAA proposes to amend the solo cross-country distance 
requirement in paragraph 5(b)(1) of appendix B to part 141 for the 
private pilot certification--airplane multiengine rating course from 
requiring a flight of ``at least 50 nautical miles'' to ``more than 50 
nautical miles.'' The purpose of this proposal is to conform the 
distance requirement under this provision to the definition of ``cross-
country'' under Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(ii).

(91) Proposal to conform the solo cross-country mileage requirement in 
an approved private pilot-helicopter rating course to ICAO requirements 
and the definition of ``cross-country.''

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraph 5(c)(1) of appendix B to part 
141 to change the solo cross-country distance requirement for the 
private pilot certification--helicopter rating course from ``at least 
75 nautical miles total distance'' to ``at least 100 nautical miles 
total distance.'' The purpose of this proposal is to conform this 
provision to the ICAO requirements for the cross-country distance, as 
set forth in ICAO Annex I, paragraph 2.7.1.3.2, which requires that the 
total distance for a cross-country flight be at least 100 nautical 
miles.
    Also, the FAA proposes to amend the solo cross-country flight 
requirement in paragraph 5(c)(1) of appendix B to part 141 for the 
private pilot certification--helicopter rating course from ``at least 
25 nautical miles'' to `` more than 25 nautical miles.'' The purpose of 
this proposal is to conform the distance requirement of this provision 
to the definition of ``cross-country'' under Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(v).

(92) Proposal to conform the solo cross-country mileage requirement in 
an approved private pilot-gyroplane rating course to the definition of 
``cross-country.''

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraph 5(d)(1) of appendix B to part 
141 to change the solo cross-country distance requirement for the 
private pilot certification--gyroplane rating course from ``at least 75 
nautical miles total distance'' to ``at least 100 nautical

[[Page 5829]]

miles total distance.'' The purpose of this proposal is to conform to 
the ICAO requirements for cross-country distance, as set forth in ICAO 
Annex I, paragraph 2.7.1.3.2, which requires that the total distance 
for a cross-country flight be at least 100 nautical miles. Also, the 
FAA proposes to amend the solo cross-country flight requirement in 
paragraph 5(d)(1) of appendix B to part 141 for the private pilot 
certification--gyroplane rating course from `` at least 25 nautical 
miles'' to `` more than 25 nautical miles.'' The purpose of this 
proposal is to conform the distance requirement under this provision to 
the definition of ``cross-country'' under Sec.  61.1(b)(3)(v).

(93) Proposal to conform the solo cross-country mileage requirement in 
an approved private pilot-powered-lift rating course to the definition 
of ``cross-country.''

    The FAA proposes to amend the solo cross-country distance 
requirement in paragraph 5(e)(1) of part 141, appendix B for the 
private pilot certification--powered-lift rating course from `` at 
least 50 nautical miles'' to ``more than 50 nautical miles.'' The 
purpose of this proposal is to conform the distance requirement under 
this provision to definition of ``cross-country'' under Sec.  
61.1(b)(3)(ii).

(94) Proposal to allow instrument training to be performed in a 
personal computer aviation training device.

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraph 4(b) of part 141, appendix C, 
by adding a paragraph (5). This would allow 10 percent of the 
instrument training for the instrument rating course to be performed in 
a PCATD.
    Under this proposal, the instrument training that would be 
performed in a PCATD would be given by the holder of a ground 
instructor certificate with an instrument rating or by a holder of a 
flight instructor certificate with an instrument rating appropriate to 
the instrument rating sought. The instrument training given in a PCATD 
would contribute to the maximum 50 percent of the instrument training 
permitted to be performed in a flight simulator or a flight training 
device in accordance with existing paragraph 4(c) of appendix C to part 
141. For a PCATD to be used for instrument training under paragraph 
4(d) of part 141, appendix C, the PCATD, instrument training, and 
instrument tasks would have to be approved by the FAA. The instrument 
training in a PCATD would have to be provided by an authorized 
instructor. For a person to receive the maximum 10 percent credit in a 
PCATD, the person could not have logged more than 40 percent of 
instrument training course required hours in a flight simulator or 
flight training device. A view-limiting device (e.g., a hood device or 
fogged glasses) would have to be worn by the applicant when logging 
instrument training in the PCATD.

(95) Proposal to allow the solo training requirements for the approved 
commercial pilot certification courses to be performed solo or with an 
instructor on board.

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraph 5 of appendix D to part 141 for 
a commercial pilot certification course to be performed either solo or 
with a flight instructor on board. The purpose is to conform paragraph 
5 of appendix D to part 141 to what is being proposed under Sec. Sec.  
61.129(a)(4), (c)(4), (d)(4), and (e)(4) for the single-engine 
airplane, helicopter, gyroplane, and powered-lift ratings at the 
commercial pilot certification level.

(96) Proposal to allow the cross-country training flights for the 
approved commercial pilot certification courses to be performed under 
VFR or IFR.

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraph 4 of part 141, appendix D to 
allow the cross-country training flights in the commercial pilot 
certification courses to be performed under VFR or IFR. This proposal 
responds positively to recommended changes to part 141 from some pilot 
schools.
    From the time that the cross-country training requirements under 
part 141, appendix D, paragraph 4 of were promulgated, the FAA has 
received recommendations from several pilot schools and companies that 
prepare training courses to amend the requirements to allow cross-
country flights to be performed under IFR. The basis for their 
recommendation is that most commercial pilot training applicants for 
airplane ratings and some for helicopter ratings are concurrently 
enrolled in an instrument rating course. The FAA agrees that it makes 
sense to allow these cross-country training requirements to be 
performed under IFR or VFR. The FAA proposes to amend the requirements 
for the daytime cross-country training flight (see subparagraphs 
(b)(1)(iii), (b)(2)(iii), (b)(3)(ii), (b)(4)(ii), (b)(5)(ii), 
(b)(7)(ii)) to read ``One cross-country flight during daytime 
conditions * * * .'' This, in effect, would permit the daytime cross-
country training flight to be performed under IFR or VFR.
    The FAA also proposes the night-time cross-country training flight 
requirements (See subparagraphs (b)(1)(iv), (b)(2)(iv), (b)(3)(iii), 
(b)(5)(iii), and (b)(7)(iii)) in the commercial pilot certification 
courses to merely read ``One cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions * * * .'' This, in effect, would permit the night-time 
cross-country training flight to be performed under IFR or under VFR.

(97) Proposal to delete the cross-country training at night time 
requirement for the commercial pilot certification course for the 
gyroplane rating.

    The FAA proposes to delete the cross-country training at night time 
requirement in paragraph 4(b)(4)(iii) of part 141, appendix D for the 
commercial pilot certification course for the gyroplane rating. The FAA 
determined that night-time training for the gyroplane rating for the 
commercial pilot certification course would be more useful and more 
safely conducted near an airport, because gyroplanes have very limited 
equipment and systems for nighttime cross country operations.

(98) Proposal to require ground reference maneuvers as an area of 
operation for the gyroplane rating in the commercial pilot certificate 
course.

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraph 4(d)(4)(vi) of appendix D to 
part 141 to require ground reference maneuvers as an area of operation 
for the gyroplane rating in the commercial pilot certificate course. 
This would conform paragraph 4(d)(4)(vi) of part 141, appendix D with 
proposed Sec.  61.127(b)(4)(vi) that would require flight proficiency 
in ``ground reference maneuvers'' for the gyroplane rating in the 
commercial pilot certificate course. The ground reference maneuvers 
must include at least ``eights around a pylon,'' ``eights along a 
road,'' ``rectangular course,'' ``S-turns,'' and ``turns around a 
point.''

(99) Proposal to allow the complex airplane training for the approved 
commercial pilot certification course--airplane single-engine rating to 
be performed in either a single or multiengine complex airplane.

    In response to the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's (AOPA) 
petition for rulemaking of February 11, 1999, the FAA proposes to amend 
the complex airplane training requirement for the commercial pilot 
certification course for the single-engine airplane rating under 
paragraph 4.(b)(1)(ii) of appendix D to part 141. The FAA would allow 
the commercial pilot certification course for the single-engine 
airplane rating to be approved with use of either a complex single-
engine airplane or a complex multiengine airplane. The use of either a 
complex single-engine

[[Page 5830]]

airplane or a complex multiengine airplane to meet the single-engine 
airplane training requirements is permitted under existing Sec.  
61.129(a)(3)(ii) for those training organizations that have chosen not 
to be approved under part 141. The FAA has determined that the current 
provision under part 141 may create an unfair financial burden on 
applicants at a part 141 pilot school versus those applicants who 
receive their training other than through a part 141 pilot school.
    Therefore, the FAA proposes to delete the word ``single-engine'' 
from paragraph 4.(b)(1)(ii) of part 141, appendix D, so the rule would 
merely read as ``10 hours of training in an airplane that has 
retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, or 
is turbine-powered.''

(100) Proposal to clarify the instrument training for the commercial 
pilot certification courses for the airplane single-engine, airplane 
multiengine, helicopter, gyroplane, powered-lift, and airship ratings.

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraphs 4(b)(1)(i), (2)(i), (3)(i), 
(4)(i), (5)(i), and (7)(i) of part 141, appendix D to clarify that the 
tasks required for ``instrument training'' in the commercial pilot 
certification courses for the airplane single-engine, airplane 
multiengine, rotorcraft helicopter, rotorcraft gyroplane, powered-lift, 
and airship ratings require the use of a view-limiting device (e.g. use 
of a hood device, fogged goggles, etc.). This proposal is in response 
to inquiries about what tasks are required to satisfy ``instrument 
training'' for commercial pilot certification courses.
    This proposal would parallel the proposed changes to instrument 
training under Sec.  61.129 for the airplane single-engine, airplane 
multiengine, rotorcraft helicopter, rotorcraft gyroplane, powered-lift, 
and airship ratings at the commercial pilot certification level.

(101) Proposal to require pilots enrolled in an ATP certification 
course to have met the ATP aeronautical experience requirements of part 
61, subpart G prior to completion of the course.

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraph 2 of part 141, appendix E to 
establish that a person must first meet the aeronautical experience 
requirements under part 61, subpart G, for an ATP certificate before 
completing the flight portion of an ATP certification course. The 
purpose of this proposal is to clarify that a person who completes the 
ATP certification course must also have met the appropriate ATP 
aeronautical experience of part 61, subpart G before applying for the 
ATP certificate.
    The existing language in paragraph 2 of part 141, appendix E has 
been interpreted by some to mean that a person could apply for an ATP 
certificate after meeting either existing paragraph 2.(a), (b), (c), or 
(d) of part 141, appendix E. This is not correct, because an applicant 
for an ATP certificate must also meet the appropriate aeronautical 
experience requirements under part 61, subpart G. The proposed 
introductory language in paragraph 2 in part 141, appendix E will 
clarify that an applicant for an ATP certificate must also meet the 
appropriate aeronautical experience requirements under part 61, subpart 
G prior to completion of the flight portion of the ATP certification 
course.

(102) Proposal to clarify the ground and flight training required for 
the approved additional category and/or class rating course.

    The FAA proposes to amend paragraphs 3 and 4 of appendix I to part 
141 to clarify the ground and flight training required for the 
additional category and/or class rating course. This proposal is in 
response to questions about what is the amount of ground and flight 
training required for an add-on aircraft category and/or class rating 
course.
    The confusion arises because the language of existing paragraphs 3 
and 4 of part 141, appendix I to part 141 that states that training 
must be in the areas ``that are specific to that aircraft category and 
class rating and pilot certificate level for which the course 
applies.'' Many believe this language does not clearly state what are 
the required ground and flight training amounts and content for ``add-
on'' category/class courses. Therefore, the FAA proposes to expand the 
content of paragraphs 3 and 4 of part 141, appendix I for these 
additional category and/or class rating courses to specify the required 
amount of ground and flight training and their content for an add-on 
aircraft category and/or class rating course at the recreational pilot, 
private pilot, commercial pilot, and ATP certification levels. Proposed 
paragraphs 3 and 4 also would establish the required amount of ground 
and flight training and their content for just an ``add-on'' class 
rating (i.e., where the applicant already holds a rating in that 
aircraft category, and the course at issue is only for an added class 
rating within that aircraft category) at the various pilot 
certification levels.

VIII. Regulatory Notices and Analyses

Paperwork Reduction Act

    Information collection requirements associated with this NPRM have 
been approved previously by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) 
under the provisions of the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 
3507(d)) and have been assigned OMB Control Numbers 2120-0009 and 0021.

International Compatibility

    In keeping with U.S. obligations under the Convention on 
International Civil Aviation, it is FAA policy to comply with 
International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) Standards and 
Recommended Practices to the maximum extent practicable. There is one 
proposal in this notice (See proposal No. 71) where the FAA is 
proposing to amend Sec.  61.159(d) and (e) to conform our ATP 
certification requirements to ICAO Standards and Recommended Practices.

Executive Order 12866 and DOT Regulatory Policies and Procedures

Pilot, Flight Instructor, and Pilot School Certification: Economic 
Assessment, Initial Regulatory Flexibility Determination, Trade Impact 
Assessment, and Unfunded Mandates Assessment
    Changes to Federal regulations must undergo several economic 
analyses. First, Executive Order 12866 directs that each Federal agency 
shall propose or adopt a regulation only upon a reasoned determination 
that the benefits of the intended regulation justify its costs. Second, 
the Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) requires 
agencies to analyze the economic impact of regulatory changes on small 
entities. Third, the Trade Agreements Act (Pub. L. 96-39) prohibits 
agencies from setting standards that create unnecessary obstacles to 
the foreign commerce of the United States. In developing U.S. 
standards, this Trade Act requires agencies to consider international 
standards and, where appropriate, that they be the basis of U.S. 
standards. Fourth, the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 
104-4) requires agencies to prepare a written assessment of the costs, 
benefits, and other effects of proposed or final rules that include a 
Federal mandate likely to result in the expenditure by State, local, or 
tribal governments, in the aggregate, or by the private sector, of $100 
million or more annually (adjusted for inflation with base year of 
1995). This portion of the preamble summarizes the FAA's analysis of 
the

[[Page 5831]]

economic impacts of this proposed rule. We suggest readers seeking 
greater detail read the full regulatory evaluation, a copy of which we 
have placed in the docket for this rulemaking.
    In conducting these analyses, FAA has determined that this proposed 
rule: (1) Has benefits that justify its costs, (2) is not an 
economically ``significant regulatory action'' as defined in section 
3(f) of Executive Order 12866, (3) is not ``significant'' as defined in 
DOT's Regulatory Policies and Procedures; (4) would not have a 
significant economic impact on a substantial number of small entities; 
(5) would not create unnecessary obstacles to the foreign commerce of 
the United States; and (6) would not impose an unfunded mandate on 
state, local, or tribal governments, or on the private sector by 
exceeding the threshold identified above. These analyses are summarized 
below.
    The FAA proposes to amend the training, qualification, 
certification, and operating requirements for pilots, flight 
instructors, ground instructors, and pilot schools. These changes are 
needed to clarify, update, and correct our existing regulations.
    For the proposed revisions, for which we were able to quantify the 
cost savings, we estimate this proposal to generate cost savings of 
$31.6 million ($22.0 million, discounted) and $4.0 million ($3.0 
million, discounted) of costs over the 2007-2016 time period. 
Therefore, this proposal is estimated to generate a net cost savings of 
$27.6 million ($19.1 million, discounted) over the same ten-year period 
and is cost-beneficial.

Regulatory Flexibility Determination

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980 (Pub. L. 96-354) (RFA) 
establishes ``as a principle of regulatory issuance that agencies shall 
endeavor, consistent with the objectives of the rule and of applicable 
statutes, to fit regulatory and informational requirements to the scale 
of the businesses, organizations, and governmental jurisdictions 
subject to regulation. To achieve this principle, agencies are required 
to solicit and consider flexible regulatory proposals and to explain 
the rationale for their actions to assure that such proposals are given 
serious consideration.'' The RFA covers a wide-range of small entities, 
including small businesses, not-for-profit organizations, and small 
governmental jurisdictions.
    Agencies must perform a review to determine whether a rule will 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities. If the agency determines that it will, the agency must 
prepare a regulatory flexibility analysis as described in the RFA.
    However, if an agency determines that a rule is not expected to 
have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of small 
entities, section 605(b) of the RFA provides that the head of the 
agency may so certify and a regulatory flexibility analysis is not 
required. The certification must include a statement providing the 
factual basis for this determination, and the reasoning should be 
clear.
    The cost of the additional training for the night vision goggle 
requirement is about $1,800 per pilot ($1,800 [ap] $1,167,138 
(undiscounted cost of night vision goggle training in year 1) / 650 
(estimated population that would receive night vision goggle training 
in year 1)). Since the training is optional these small costs would not 
impose a burden on any small entity. Also, this proposal could result 
in annual cost savings of about $625 per rotorcraft pilot and a maximum 
cost savings of about $430 per GA pilot by allowing the use of 
alternate methods to maintain instrument currency. We do not consider 
the costs or cost-savings of this rule to be significant. Therefore, 
the FAA certifies that this proposed rule would not have a significant 
economic impact on a substantial number of small entities. The FAA 
solicits comments regarding this determination.

International Trade Impact Assessment

    The Trade Agreements Act of 1979 (Pub. L. 96-39) prohibits Federal 
agencies from establishing any standards or engaging in related 
activities that create unnecessary obstacles to the foreign commerce of 
the United States. Legitimate domestic objectives, such as safety, are 
not considered unnecessary obstacles. The statute also requires 
consideration of international standards and, where appropriate, that 
they be the basis for U.S. standards. The FAA has assessed the 
potential effect of this proposed rule and has determined that it would 
have only a domestic impact and therefore no affect on international 
trade.

Unfunded Mandates Assessment

    Title II of the Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (Pub. L. 104-
4) requires each Federal agency to prepare a written statement 
assessing the effects of any Federal mandate in a proposed or final 
agency rule that may result in an expenditure of $100 million or more 
(adjusted annually for inflation with the base year 1995) in any one 
year by State, local, and tribal governments, in the aggregate, or by 
the private sector; such a mandate is deemed to be a ``significant 
regulatory action.'' The FAA currently uses an inflation-adjusted value 
of $128.1 million in lieu of $100 million. This proposed rule does not 
contain such a mandate.

Executive Order 13132, Federalism

    The FAA has analyzed this proposed rule under the principles and 
criteria of Executive Order 13132, Federalism. We determined that this 
action would not have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national Government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government, and therefore would not have federalism implications.

Plain English

    Executive Order 12866 (58 FR 51735, Oct. 4, 1993) requires each 
agency to write regulations that are simple and easy to understand. We 
invite your comments on how to make these proposed regulations easier 
to understand, including answers to questions such as the following:
     Are the requirements in the proposed regulations clearly 
stated?
     Do the proposed regulations contain unnecessary technical 
language or jargon that interferes with their clarity?
     Would the regulations be easier to understand if they were 
divided into more (but shorter) sections?
     Is the description in the preamble helpful in 
understanding the proposed regulations?
     Please send your comments to the address specified in the 
ADDRESSES section.

Environmental Analysis

    FAA Order 1050.1E identifies FAA actions that are categorically 
excluded from preparation of an environmental assessment or 
environmental impact statement under the National Environmental Policy 
Act in the absence of extraordinary circumstances. The FAA has 
determined this proposed rulemaking action qualifies for the 
categorical exclusion identified in paragraph 307(k) and involves no 
extraordinary circumstances.

Regulations That Significantly Affect Energy Supply, Distribution, or 
Use

    The FAA has analyzed this NPRM under Executive Order 13211, Actions 
Concerning Regulations that Significantly Affect Energy Supply, 
Distribution, or Use (May 18, 2001). We have determined that it is not 
a ``significant energy action'' under the executive order because it is 
not a ``significant regulatory action'' under

[[Page 5832]]

Executive Order 12866, and it is not likely to have a significant 
adverse effect on the supply, distribution, or use of energy.

List of Subjects

14 CFR Part 61

    Aircraft, Airmen, Alcohol abuse, Aviation safety, Drug abuse, 
Recreation and recreation areas, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Security measures, Teachers.

14 CFR Part 91

    Afghanistan, Agriculture, Air traffic control, Aircraft, Airmen, 
Airports, Aviation safety, Canada, Cuba, Ethiopia, Freight, Mexico, 
Noise control, Political candidates, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, Yugoslavia.

14 CFR Part 141

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

The Proposed Amendment

    In consideration of the foregoing, the Federal Aviation 
Administration proposes to amend Chapter I of Title 14, Code of Federal 
Regulations, as follows:

PART 61--CERTIFICATION: PILOTS AND FLIGHT 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. Amend Sec.  61.1 by:
    A. Revising paragraph (b)(2)(i) and (ii);
    B. Re-designating existing paragraphs (b)(12) through (16) as 
paragraphs (b)(15) through (19);
    C. Re-designating existing paragraphs (b)(4) through (11) as 
paragraphs (b)(5) through (12); and
    D. Adding new paragraphs (b)(4), (13), (14), and (20) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.1  Applicability and definitions.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) A person who holds a valid ground instructor certificate issued 
under part 61 of this chapter, and is current, as specified in Sec.  
61.217, when conducting ground training in accordance with the 
privileges and limitations of his or her ground instructor certificate;
    (ii) A person who holds a valid flight instructor certificate 
issued under part 61 of this chapter, and is current, as specified in 
Sec.  61.197, when conducting ground training or flight training in 
accordance with the privileges and limitations of his or her flight 
instructor certificate; or
* * * * *
    (4) Current as it relates to a pilot certificate, rating, or 
authorization means the pilot meets the appropriate recent flight 
experience requirements of this part for the flight operation being 
conducted; current as it relates to a flight instructor certificate 
means the flight instructor meets the flight instructor recent 
experience as specified in Sec.  61.197; and current as it relates to a 
ground instructor certificate means the ground instructor meets the 
recent experience as specified in Sec.  61.217.
* * * * *
    (13) Night vision goggles means an appliance worn by a pilot that 
enhances the pilot's ability to maintain visual surface reference at 
night.
    (14) Night vision goggle operation means the portion of a flight 
that occurs during the time period from 1 hour after sunset to 1 hour 
before sunrise where the pilot maintains visual surface reference using 
night vision goggles in an aircraft that is approved for such an 
operation.
* * * * *
    (20) Valid airman certificate, rating or authorization means it has 
not been surrendered, suspended, revoked, or expired.

    3. Amend Sec.  61.3 by revising paragraphs (a) introductory text, 
(a)(1), (b) introductory text, (c)(1), (f)(2)(i), (f)(2)(ii), 
(g)(2)(i), (g)(2)(ii), and (j)(1) introductory text and by removing 
paragraph (j)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.3  Requirement for certificates, ratings, and authorizations.

    (a) Pilot certificate. A person may not serve as a required pilot 
flight crewmember of a civil aircraft of the United States, unless that 
person--
    (1) Has a current and valid pilot certificate or special purpose 
pilot authorization issued under this part in that person's physical 
possession or readily accessible in the aircraft when exercising the 
privileges of that pilot certificate or authorization. However, when 
the aircraft is operated within a foreign country, a current and valid 
pilot license issued by that country may be used; and
* * * * *
    (b) Required pilot certificate for operating a foreign-registered 
aircraft. A person may not serve as a required pilot flight crewmember 
of a civil aircraft of foreign registry within the United States, 
unless that person's pilot certificate--
* * * * *
    (c) Medical certificate. (1) Except as provided under paragraph 
(c)(2) of this section, a person may not serve as a required pilot 
flight crewmember of an aircraft, unless that person has a valid and 
appropriate medical certificate issued under part 67 of this chapter or 
other documentation acceptable to the FAA that is in that person's 
physical possession or readily accessible in the aircraft.
* * * * *
    (f) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) Holds a current and valid pilot certificate with category and 
class ratings for that aircraft and a current instrument rating for 
that category aircraft;
    (ii) Holds a current and valid airline transport pilot certificate 
with category and class ratings for that aircraft; or
* * * * *
    (g) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) Holds a current and valid pilot certificate with category and 
class ratings for that aircraft and a current instrument rating for 
that category aircraft;
    (ii) Holds a current and valid airline transport pilot certificate 
with category and class ratings for that aircraft; or
* * * * *
    (j) * * *
    (1) Age limitation. No person who holds a pilot certificate issued 
under this part may serve as a pilot on a civil aircraft of the United 
States in the following operations if the person has reached his or her 
60th birthday--
* * * * *
    4. Amend Sec.  61.19 by revising paragraphs (b), (d), and (e) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  61.19  Duration of pilot and instructor certificates.

* * * * *
    (b) Student pilot certificate. (1) For student pilots who have not 
reached their 40th birthday, if the medical portion of the certificate 
is current, the student pilot certificate remains current for 36 
calendar months from the month issued.
    (2) For student pilots who have reached their 40th birthday, if the 
medical portion of the certificate is current, the student pilot 
certificate remains current for 24 calendar months from the month 
issued.
    (3) For student pilots seeking a glider or balloon rating only, the 
student pilot certificate remains current for 36 calendar months from 
the month issued, regardless of the student pilot's age.
* * * * *

[[Page 5833]]

    (d) Flight instructor certificate. A flight instructor certificate:
    (1) Is issued without a specific expiration date;
    (2) Remains current as long as the holder complies with Sec.  
61.197 of this part (recent flight instructor experience) every 24 
calendar months or Sec.  61.199 of this part (reinstatement); and
    (3) Is valid only as long as the holder of the certificate 
maintains a valid U.S. pilot certificate.
    (e) Ground instructor certificate. A ground instructor certificate:
    (1) Is issued without a specific expiration date; and
    (2) Remains current as long as the holder complies with the 
requirements under Sec.  61.217 of this part.
* * * * *
    5. Amend Sec.  61.23 by:
    A. Revising paragraph (a)(3)(iv);
    B. Redesignating paragraph (a)(3)(v) as (a)(3)(vi);
    C. Adding new paragraphs (a)(3)(v) and (vii);
    D. Revising newly designated paragraph (vi);
    E. Revising paragraphs (b)(3), (7), and (8); and
    F. Adding a new paragraph (b)(9) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.23  Medical certificates: Requirement and duration.

    (a) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (iv) When exercising the privileges of a flight instructor 
certificate and acting as the pilot in command;
    (v) When exercising the privileges of a flight instructor 
certificate and serving as a required pilot flight crewmember;
    (vi) When taking a practical test in an aircraft for a recreational 
pilot, private pilot, commercial pilot, or airline transport pilot 
certificate, or for a flight instructor certificate; or
    (vii) When performing the duties as an Examiner in an aircraft when 
administering a practical test or proficiency check for an airman 
certificate, rating, or authorization.
    (b) * * *
    (3) When exercising the privileges of a pilot certificate with a 
glider category rating or balloon class rating in a glider or a 
balloon, as appropriate;
* * * * *
    (7) When serving as an Examiner or check airman and administering a 
practical test or proficiency check for an airman certificate, rating, 
or authorization conducted in a glider, balloon, flight simulator, or 
flight training device;
    (8) When taking a practical test or a proficiency check for a 
certificate, rating, authorization or operating privilege conducted in 
a glider, balloon, flight simulator, or flight training device; or
    (9) When a pilot of the U.S. Armed Forces can show a current 
medical examination for pilot flight status from a medical facility of 
the U.S. Armed Forces and the flight does not involve air 
transportation services under parts 121, 125, or 135 of this chapter.
* * * * *
    6. Amend Sec.  61.29 by:
    A. Removing paragraph (d)(3);
    B. Re-designating existing paragraphs (d)(4) and (d)(5) as 
paragraphs (d)(3) and (d)(4); and
    C. Revising newly re-designated paragraph (d)(4) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.29  Replacement of a lost or destroyed airman or medical 
certificate or knowledge test report.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (4) Any information regarding the--
    (i) Grade, number, and date of issuance of the airman certificate 
and ratings, if appropriate;
    (ii) Class of medical certificate, the place and date of the 
medical exam, name of the Airman Medical Examiner (AME), and the 
circumstances concerning the loss of the original medical certificate, 
as appropriate; and
    (iii) Date the knowledge test was taken, if appropriate.
* * * * *
    7. Amend Sec.  61.31 by:
    A. Revising paragraph (d);
    B. Re-designating existing paragraph (k) as (l); and
    C. Adding new paragraph (k) to read as follows:


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

* * * * *
    (d) Aircraft category, class, and type ratings: Limitations on 
operating an aircraft as the pilot in command. To serve as the pilot in 
command of an aircraft, a person must--
    (1) Hold the appropriate category, class, and type rating (if a 
class or type rating is required) for the aircraft to be flown; or
    (2) Have received training required by this part that is 
appropriate to the pilot certification level, aircraft category, class, 
and type rating (if a class or type rating is required) for the 
aircraft to be flown, and have received an endorsement for solo flight 
in that aircraft from an authorized instructor.
* * * * *
    (k) Additional training required for night vision goggle 
operations. (1) Except as provided under paragraph (k)(3) of this 
section, no person may act as a pilot in command of an aircraft using 
night vision goggles unless that person receives and logs ground 
training from an authorized instructor and obtains a logbook or 
training record endorsement from an authorized instructor who certifies 
the person completed the ground training. The ground training must 
include the following subjects:
    (i) Applicable portions of this chapter that relate to night vision 
goggle limitations and flight operations;
    (ii) Aeromedical factors relating to the use of night vision 
goggles, including how to protect night vision, how the eyes adapt to 
night, self-imposed stresses that affect night vision, effects of 
lighting on night vision, cues used to estimate distance and depth 
perception at night, and visual illusions;
    (iii) Normal, abnormal, and emergency operations of night vision 
goggle equipment;
    (iv) Night vision goggle performance and scene interpretation; and
    (v) Night vision goggle operation flight planning, including night 
terrain interpretation and factors affecting terrain interpretation.
    (2) Except as provided under paragraph (k)(3) of this section, no 
person may act as a pilot in command of an aircraft using night vision 
goggles unless that person receives and logs flight training from an 
authorized instructor and obtains a logbook or training record 
endorsement from an authorized instructor who found the person 
proficient in the use of night vision goggles. The flight training must 
include the following tasks:
    (i) Preparation and use of internal and external aircraft lighting 
systems for night vision goggle operations;
    (ii) Preflight preparation of night vision goggles for night vision 
goggle operations;
    (iii) Proper piloting techniques when using night vision goggles 
during the takeoff, climb, enroute, descent, and landing phases of 
flight; and
    (iv) Normal, abnormal, and emergency flight operations using night 
vision goggles.
    (3) The requirements under paragraphs (k)(1) and (2) of this 
section do not apply if a person can document satisfactory completion 
of any of the following pilot proficiency checks using night vision 
goggles in an aircraft:
    (i) A pilot proficiency check for using night vision goggles 
conducted by the U.S. Armed Forces; or
    (ii) A pilot proficiency check for using night vision goggles under 
part 135 of

[[Page 5834]]

this chapter conducted by an Examiner or check airman.
* * * * *
    8. Amend Sec.  61.35 by revising paragraph (a)(2)(iv) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.35  Knowledge test: Prerequisites and passing grades.

    (a) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (iv) Permanent mailing address. If the permanent mailing address 
includes a post office box number, then provide a current residential 
address.
* * * * *
    9. Amend Sec.  61.39 by revising paragraphs (b)(2), (c)(1) , 
(c)(2), (d), and (e) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.39  Prerequisites for practical tests.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (2) Is employed by the U.S. Armed Forces as a flight crewmember in 
U.S. military air transport operations at the time of the practical 
test and has completed the pilot in command aircraft qualification 
training program that is appropriate to the pilot certificate and 
rating sought.
    (c) * * *
    (1) Holds a valid foreign pilot license issued by a contracting 
State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation that authorizes 
at least the privileges of the pilot certificate sought;
    (2) Is only applying for a type rating; or
* * * * *
    (d) If all increments of the practical test are not completed in 1 
day, all remaining increments of the test must be completed within 2 
calendar months after the month the applicant began the test.
    (e) If all increments of the practical test are not completed 
within 2 calendar months after the month the applicant began the test, 
the applicant must retake the entire practical test.

    10. Amend Sec.  61.43 by revising paragraphs (a) and (b) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.43  Practical tests: General procedures.

    (a) Completion of the practical test for a certificate or rating 
consists of--
    (1) Performing the tasks specified in the areas of operation for 
the airman certificate or rating sought within the approved practical 
test standards;
    (2) Demonstrating mastery of the aircraft by performing each task 
successfully;
    (3) Demonstrating proficiency and competency within the approved 
standards; and
    (4) Demonstrating sound judgment.
    (b) The pilot flight crew complement required during the practical 
test is based on one of the following requirements that applies to the 
aircraft being used on the practical test:
    (1) If the aircraft's FAA-approved flight manual requires the pilot 
flight crew complement be a single pilot, then the applicant must 
demonstrate single pilot proficiency on the practical test.
    (2) If the aircraft's type certification data sheet requires the 
pilot flight crew complement be a single pilot, then the applicant must 
demonstrate single pilot proficiency on the practical test.
    (3) If the FAA Flight Standardization Board report, FAA-approved 
aircraft flight manual, or aircraft type certification data sheet 
allows the pilot flight crew complement to be either a single pilot, or 
a pilot and a copilot, then the applicant may demonstrate single pilot 
proficiency or have a copilot on the practical test. If the applicant 
performs the practical test with a copilot, the limitation of ``Second 
in Command Required'' will be placed on the applicant's pilot 
certificate. The limitation may be removed if the applicant passes the 
practical test by demonstrating single-pilot proficiency in the 
aircraft in which single-pilot privileges are sought.
* * * * *
    11. Amend Sec.  61.45 by revising paragraphs (a)(2)(iii) and (c) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  61.45  Practical tests: Required aircraft and equipment.

    (a) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (iii) A military aircraft of the same category, class, and type, if 
class and type are applicable, for which the applicant is applying for 
a certificate or rating, and provided--
    (A) The aircraft is under the direct operational control of the 
U.S. Armed Forces;
    (B) The aircraft is airworthy under the maintenance standards of 
the U.S. Armed Forces; and
    (C) The applicant has a letter from his or her commanding officer 
authorizing the use of the aircraft for the practical test.
* * * * *
    (c) Required controls. Except for lighter-than-air aircraft and 
gliders, an aircraft used for a practical test must have engine power 
controls and flight controls that are easily reached and operable in a 
conventional manner by both pilots, unless the Examiner determines that 
the practical test can be conducted safely in the aircraft without the 
controls easily reached by the Examiner.
* * * * *
    12. Amend Sec.  61.51 by:
    A. Adding new paragraph (b)(3)(iv);
    B. Revising paragraph (b)(1)(iv), (b)(2)(v), (b)(3)(iii), (e), the 
heading of paragraph (g) and paragraph (g)(4); and
    C. Adding new paragraphs (j) and (k) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.51  Pilot logbooks.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (iv) Type and identification of aircraft, flight simulator, flight 
training device, or personal computer aviation training device, as 
appropriate.
    (2) * * *
    (v) Training received in a flight simulator, flight training 
device, or personal computer aviation training device from an 
authorized instructor.
    (3) * * *
    (iii) Simulated instrument conditions in flight, a flight 
simulator, flight training device, or personal computer aviation 
training device.
    (iv) Use of night vision goggles in an aircraft in flight, in a 
flight simulator, or in a flight training device.
* * * * *
    (e) Logging pilot in command flight time. (1) A recreational, 
private, commercial, or airline transport pilot may log pilot in 
command flight time for flights--
    (i) When the pilot is the sole manipulator of the controls of an 
aircraft for which the pilot is rated, or has sport pilot privileges;
    (ii) When the pilot is the sole occupant in the aircraft;
    (iii) When the pilot, except for a recreational pilot, acts as 
pilot in command of an aircraft for which more than one pilot is 
required under the type certification of the aircraft or the 
regulations under which the flight is conducted; or
    (iv) When the pilot performs the duties of pilot in command while 
under the supervision of a qualified pilot in command provided--
    (A) The pilot performing the duties of pilot in command holds a 
current and valid commercial or airline transport pilot certificate and 
aircraft rating that is appropriate to the category and class of 
aircraft being flown, if a class rating is appropriate;
    (B) The pilot performing the duties of pilot in command is 
undergoing an approved pilot in command training program that includes 
ground and flight training on the following areas of operation--

[[Page 5835]]

    (1) Preflight preparation;
    (2) Preflight procedures;
    (3) Takeoff and departure;
    (4) In-flight maneuvers;
    (5) Instrument procedures;
    (6) Landings and approaches to landings;
    (7) Normal and abnormal procedures;
    (8) Emergency procedures; and
    (9) Postflight procedures;
    (C) The supervising pilot in command holds a--
    (1) Current and valid commercial pilot certificate and flight 
instructor certificate, and aircraft rating that is appropriate to the 
category, class, and type of aircraft being flown, if a class or type 
rating is required; or
    (2) Current and valid airline transport pilot certificate and 
aircraft rating that is appropriate to the category, class, and type of 
aircraft being flown, if a class or type rating is required; and
    (D) The supervising pilot in command logs the pilot in command 
training in the pilot's logbook, certifies the pilot in command 
training in the pilot's logbook, and attests to that certification with 
his or her signature, and flight instructor certificate number.
    (2) If rated to act as pilot in command of the aircraft, an airline 
transport pilot may log all flight time while acting as pilot in 
command of an operation requiring an airline transport pilot 
certificate.
    (3) A certificated flight instructor may log pilot in command time 
for all flight time while serving as the authorized instructor in an 
operation if the instructor is rated to act as pilot in command of that 
aircraft.
* * * * *
    (g) Logging instrument time.
* * * * *
    (4) A person can use time in a flight simulator, flight training 
device, or personal computer aviation training device for acquiring 
instrument aeronautical experience for a pilot certificate, rating, or 
instrument recency experience, provided an authorized instructor is 
present to observe that time and signs the person's logbook to verify 
the time and the content of the training session.
* * * * *
    (j) Aircraft requirements for logging flight time. For a person to 
log flight time, the time must be acquired in an aircraft that is 
identified as an aircraft under Sec.  61.5(b), and is--
    (1) An aircraft of U.S. registry with a current standard, limited, 
restricted, experimental, or primary airworthiness certificate;
    (2) A light sport aircraft for a sport pilot rating or privilege;
    (3) An aircraft of foreign registry with an airworthiness 
certificate that is approved by the aviation authority of a foreign 
country that is a member state to the Convention on International Civil 
Aviation Organization;
    (4) A military aircraft under the direct operational control of the 
U.S. Armed Forces; or
    (5) A public aircraft under the direct operational control of a 
Federal, State, County, or Municipal law enforcement agency, if the 
flight time was acquired by the pilot while engaged on an official law 
enforcement flight for a Federal, State, County, or Municipal law 
enforcement agency.
    (k) Logging night vision goggle time. (1) A person may log night 
vision goggle time only for the time the person uses night vision 
goggles as the primary visual reference of the surface and operates:
    (i) An aircraft during a night vision goggle operation; or
    (ii) A flight simulator or flight training device with the lighting 
system adjusted to represent the period beginning 1 hour after sunset 
and ending 1 hour before sunrise.
    (2) An authorized instructor may log night vision goggle time when 
that person conducts training using night vision goggles as the primary 
visual reference of the surface and operates:
    (i) An aircraft during a night goggle operation; or
    (ii) A flight simulator or flight training device with the lighting 
system adjusted to represent the period beginning 1 hour after sunset 
and ending 1 hour before sunrise.
    (3) To log night vision goggle time to meet the recent night vision 
goggle experience requirements under Sec.  61.57(f), a person must log 
the information required under Sec.  61.51(b).

    13. Amend Sec.  61.57 by revising paragraph (c) and (d); and adding 
new paragraphs (f) and (g) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.57  Recent flight experience: Pilot in command.

* * * * *
    (c) Instrument experience. Except as provided in paragraph (e) of 
this section, no person may act as pilot in command under IFR or 
weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed for VFR unless:
    (1) Use of an airplane, powered-lift, helicopter, or airship for 
maintaining instrument experience. Within the 6 calendar months 
preceding a flight, that person performed and logged at least the 
following tasks, iterations, and flight time in an airplane, powered-
lift, helicopter, or airship, as appropriate, for the instrument rating 
privileges to be maintained in actual weather conditions, or under 
simulated conditions using a view-limiting device that involves 
performing the following--
    (i) Six instrument approaches consisting of both precision and non-
precision approaches.
    (ii) One complete holding pattern at a radio station and one 
complete holding pattern at an intersection or at a waypoint.
    (iii) One hour of cross-country flying that involves intercepting 
and tracking courses through the use of navigation systems, performing 
a takeoff, area departure, enroute, area arrival, approach, and missed 
approach phase of flight.
    (2) Use of a flight simulator or flight training device for 
maintaining instrument experience. Within the 6 calendar months 
preceding the flight, that person performed and logged at least the 
following tasks, iterations, and simulation time in a flight simulator 
or flight training device, provided the flight simulator or flight 
training device represents the category of aircraft for the instrument 
rating privileges to be maintained and the person uses a view-limiting 
device that involves performing the following--
    (i) Three hours of instrument experience.
    (ii) Two 180-degree steep turns involving turns in both directions.
    (iii) One complete holding pattern at a radio station and one 
complete holding pattern at an intersection or at a waypoint.
    (iv) Six precision approaches.
    (v) Six non-precision approaches.
    (vi) Two usual altitude recoveries while in a descending, 
Vne airspeed condition and two usual altitude recoveries 
while in an ascending, stall speed condition.
    (vii) One hour of a simulated cross-country operation that involves 
intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation 
systems, performing a takeoff, area departure, enroute, area arrival, 
approach, and missed approach phase of flight.
    (3) Use of a personal computer aviation training device for 
maintaining instrument experience. Within the 2 calendar months 
preceding the flight, that person performed and logged at least the 
following tasks, iterations, and simulation time in a personal computer 
aviation training device and the person uses a view-limiting device 
that involves performing the following--
    (i) Three hours of instrument experience.
    (ii) Two 180-degree steep turns involving turns in both directions.

[[Page 5836]]

    (iii) One complete holding pattern at a radio station and one 
complete holding pattern at an intersection or at a waypoint.
    (iv) Six precision approaches.
    (v) Six non-precision approaches.
    (vi) Two usual altitude recoveries while in a descending, 
Vne airspeed condition and two usual altitude recoveries 
while in an ascending, stall speed condition.
    (vii) One hour of a simulated cross-country operation that involves 
intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation 
systems, performing a takeoff, area departure, enroute, area arrival, 
approach, and missed approach phase of flight.
    (4) Combination of completing instrument experience in an aircraft 
and a flight simulator, flight training device, or personal computer 
aviation training device. A person who elects to complete the 
instrument experience with a combination of an aircraft, and a flight 
simulator, flight training device, or personal computer aviation 
training device must have within the 6 calendar months preceding the 
flight performed and logged--
    (i) One hour of cross-country flying in an airplane, powered-lift, 
helicopter, or airship, as appropriate, for the instrument rating 
privileges to be maintained in actual weather conditions, or under 
simulated conditions using a view-limiting device and performing the 
tasks of intercepting and tracking courses by the use of navigation 
systems, performing a takeoff, area departure, enroute, area arrival, 
approach, and missed approach phase of flight; and
    (ii) Three hours of instrument experience using a view-limiting 
device in a flight simulator, flight training device, or a personal 
computer aviation training device that represents the category of 
aircraft for the instrument rating privileges to be maintained and 
involves performing at least the following tasks--
    (A) Two 180-degree steep turns involving turns in both directions.
    (B) One complete holding pattern at a radio station and one 
complete holding pattern at an intersection or at a waypoint.
    (C) Six precision approaches.
    (D) Six non-precision approaches.
    (E) Two usual altitude recoveries while in a descending, 
Vne airspeed condition and two usual altitude recoveries 
while in an ascending, stall speed condition.
    (F) One hour of a simulated cross-country operation that involves 
intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation 
systems, performing a takeoff, area departure, enroute, area arrival, 
approach, and missed approach phase of flight.
    (5) Combination of completing instrument experience in a flight 
simulator or flight training device, and a personal computer aviation 
training device. A person who elects to complete the instrument 
experience with a combination of a flight simulator or flight training 
device, and a personal computer aviation training device must have 
within the 6 calendar months preceding the flight performed and 
logged--
    (i) One hour of a simulated cross-country operation using a view-
limiting device in a flight simulator or flight training device that 
represents the category of aircraft for the instrument rating 
privileges to be maintained and involves performing the tasks of 
intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation 
systems, performing a takeoff, area departure, enroute, area arrival, 
approach, and missed approach phase of flight; and
    (ii) Three hours of instrument experience using a view-limiting 
device in a personal computer aviation training device that represents 
the category of aircraft for the instrument rating privileges to be 
maintained and involves performing at least the following tasks--
    (A) Two 180-degree steep turns involving turns in both directions.
    (B) One complete holding pattern at a radio station and one 
complete holding pattern at an intersection or at a waypoint.
    (C) Six precision approaches.
    (D) Six non-precision approaches.
    (E) Two usual altitude recoveries while in a descending, 
Vne airspeed condition and two usual altitude recoveries 
while in an ascending, stall speed condition.
    (F) One hour of a simulated cross-country operation that involves 
intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation 
systems, performing a takeoff, area departure, enroute, area arrival, 
approach, and missed approach phase of flight.
    (6) Maintaining instrument recent experience in a glider.
    (i) Unless the person has performed and logged flight time in a 
glider for the instrument rating privileges to be maintained in actual 
weather conditions or under simulated conditions that include the 
following:
    (A) One hour of instrument flight time in a glider or in a single-
engine airplane using a view limiting device while performing cross-
country practice operations that involve intercepting and tracking 
courses through the use of navigation systems while performing an area 
departure, enroute, and area arrival phase of flight; and
    (B) Two hours of instrument flight time in a glider or a single-
engine airplane with the use of a view limiting device while performing 
straight glides, turns to specific headings, steep turns, flight at 
various airspeeds, navigation, and slow flight and stalls.
    (ii) Before a pilot is allowed to carry a passenger in a glider 
under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed 
for VFR, that pilot also must have logged and performed 2 hours of 
instrument flight time in a glider using a view limiting device while 
performing performance maneuvers, performance airspeeds, navigation, 
slow flight, and stalls.
    (d) Instrument proficiency check. Except as provided in paragraph 
(e) of this section, a person who does not meet the instrument 
experience requirements of paragraph (c) of this section within the 12 
calendar months before the flight may not serve as pilot in command 
under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed 
for VFR until having passed an instrument proficiency check that 
consists of the tasks required by the instrument rating practical test.
* * * * *
    (f) Night vision goggle operating experience. (1) No person may act 
as a pilot in command in a night vision goggle operation with 
passengers on board unless, within 2 calendar months before the flight, 
that person performs and logs the following tasks as the sole 
manipulator of the controls on a flight during a night vision goggle 
operation--
    (i) Three takeoffs and three landings, with each takeoff and 
landing including a climbout, cruise, descent, and approach phase of 
flight (only required if the pilot wants to use night vision goggles 
during the takeoff and landing phases of the flight).
    (ii) Three hovering tasks (only required if the pilot wants to use 
night vision goggles when operating helicopters or powered-lifts during 
the hovering phase of flight).
    (iii) Three area departure and area arrival tasks.
    (iv) Three tasks of transitioning from aided night flight (aided 
night flight means where the pilot uses night vision goggles to 
maintain visual surface reference) to unaided night flight (unaided 
night flight means where the pilot does not use night vision goggles) 
and back to aided night flight.
    (v) Three night vision goggle operations, or when operating 
helicopters or powered-lifts, six night vision goggle operations.

[[Page 5837]]

    (2) No person may act as a pilot in command using night vision 
goggles unless, within 4 calendar months before the flight, that person 
performs and logs the tasks listed in paragraph (f)(1)(i) through (v) 
of this section as the sole manipulator of the controls during a night 
vision goggle operation.
    (g) Night vision goggle proficiency check. A person must either 
meet the night vision goggle experience requirements of paragraphs 
(f)(1) or (f)(2) of this section or pass a night vision goggle 
proficiency check to act as pilot in command using night vision 
goggles. The proficiency check must be performed in the category of 
aircraft that is appropriate to the night vision goggle operation the 
person is seeking the night vision goggle privilege or in a flight 
simulator or flight training device that is representative of that 
category of aircraft. The check must consist of the tasks listed under 
Sec.  61.31(l) of this part, and the check must be performed by:
    (1) An Examiner who is qualified and current to perform night 
vision goggle operations in that same aircraft category and class;
    (2) A person who is authorized by the U.S. Armed Forces to perform 
night vision goggle proficiency checks, provided the person being 
administered the check is also member of the U.S. Armed Forces;
    (3) A company check pilot who is authorized to perform night vision 
goggle proficiency checks under parts 121, 125, or 135 of this chapter, 
provided that both the check pilot and the pilot being tested are 
employees of that operator;
    (4) An authorized flight instructor who is qualified and current to 
perform night vision goggle operations in that same aircraft category 
and class;
    (5) A person who is qualified and current as pilot in command for 
night vision goggle operations in accordance with paragraph (f) of this 
section; or
    (6) A person approved by the FAA to perform night vision goggle 
proficiency checks.

    14. Amend Sec.  61.59 by revising the section heading, paragraphs 
(a)(1) through (4), and (b); and adding new paragraphs (c) and (d) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  61.59  Applications, certificates, logbooks, reports, and 
records: Falsification, reproduction, or alteration; Incorrect 
statements.

    (a) * * *
    (1) A fraudulent or intentionally false statement on any 
application for an airman certificate, rating, or authorization, or 
duplicate thereof, issued under this part;
    (2) A fraudulent or intentionally false entry in any logbook, 
record, or report that is required to show compliance with any 
requirement for the issuance of or exercise of the privileges of an 
airman certificate, rating, or authorization;
    (3) A reproduction of an airman certificate, rating, or 
authorization for fraudulent purposes; or
    (4) An alteration of an airman certificate, rating, or 
authorization.
    (b) The commission by any person of an act prohibited under 
paragraph (a) of this section is basis for--
    (1) Suspending or revoking an airman certificate or ratings held by 
that person;
    (2) Withdrawing authorizations held by that person; and
    (3) Denying all applications for an airman certificate, rating, or 
authorization requested by that person.
    (c) An incorrect statement made on an application for an airman 
certificate, rating, or authorization can serve as basis for 
suspending, revoking, or denying an airman certificate, rating, or 
authorization.
    (d) An incorrect entry made in a logbook, record, or report to show 
compliance with any requirements for an airman certificate, rating, or 
authorization can serve as basis for suspending, revoking, or denying 
an airman certificate, rating, or authorization.

    15. Revise Sec.  61.63 to read as follows:


Sec.  61.63  Additional aircraft ratings (other than for ratings at the 
airline transport pilot certification level).

    (a) General. For an additional aircraft rating on a pilot 
certificate, other than for an airline transport pilot certificate, a 
person must meet the requirements of this section appropriate to the 
additional aircraft rating sought.
    (b) Additional aircraft category rating. A person who applies to 
add a category rating to a pilot certificate:
    (1) Must complete the training and have the applicable aeronautical 
experience.
    (2) Must have a logbook or training record endorsement from an 
authorized instructor attesting that the person was found competent in 
the appropriate aeronautical knowledge areas and proficient in the 
appropriate areas of operation.
    (3) Must pass the practical test.
    (4) Need not take an additional knowledge test if the person holds 
an airplane, rotorcraft, powered-lift, or airship rating at that pilot 
certificate level.
    (c) Additional aircraft class rating. A person who applies for an 
additional class rating on a pilot certificate:
    (1) Must have a logbook or training record endorsement from an 
authorized instructor attesting that the person was found competent in 
the appropriate aeronautical knowledge areas and proficient in the 
appropriate areas of operation.
    (2) Must pass the practical test.
    (3) Need not meet the training time and iteration requirements 
under this part that apply to the pilot certificate for the aircraft 
class rating sought. If the person holds only a lighter-than-air 
category rating with a balloon class rating and seeks an airship class 
rating, then that person must receive the required training and possess 
the appropriate aeronautical experience.
    (4) Need not take an additional knowledge test if the person holds 
an airplane, rotorcraft, powered-lift, or airship rating at that pilot 
certificate level.
    (d) Additional aircraft type rating. Except as provided under 
paragraph (d)(6) of this section, a person who applies for an aircraft 
type rating or an aircraft type rating to be completed concurrently 
with an aircraft category or class rating--
    (1) Must hold or concurrently obtain an appropriate instrument 
rating, except as provided in paragraph (h) of this section.
    (2) Must have a logbook or training record endorsement from an 
authorized instructor attesting that the person is competent in the 
appropriate aeronautical knowledge areas and proficient in the 
appropriate areas of operation at the airline transport pilot 
certification level.
    (3) Must pass the practical test at the airline transport pilot 
certification level.
    (4) Must perform the practical test in actual or simulated 
instrument conditions, except as provided in paragraph (e) of this 
section.
    (5) Need not take an additional knowledge test if the applicant 
holds an airplane, rotorcraft, powered-lift, or airship rating on the 
pilot certificate.
    (6) In the case of a pilot employee of a part 121 or part 135 
certificate holder, the pilot must--
    (i) Meet the appropriate requirements under paragraphs (d)(1), 
(d)(3), and (d)(4) of this section; and
    (ii) Receive a flight training record endorsement from the 
certificate holder attesting that the person completed the certificate 
holder's approved ground and flight training program.
    (e) Aircraft not capable of instrument maneuvers and procedures. 
(1) An applicant for a type rating or a type rating in addition to an 
aircraft category and/or class rating who provides an aircraft that is 
not capable of the instrument maneuvers and procedures required on the 
practical test:

[[Page 5838]]

    (i) May apply for the type rating, but the rating would be limited 
to ``VFR only.''
    (ii) May have the ``VFR only'' limitation removed for that aircraft 
type after the applicant:
    (A) Passes a practical test in that type of aircraft in actual or 
simulated instrument conditions;
    (B) Passes a practical test in that type of aircraft on the 
appropriate instrument maneuvers and procedures under Sec.  61.157 of 
this part; or
    (C) Becomes qualified under Sec.  61.73(d) of this part for that 
type of aircraft.
    (2) When an instrument rating is issued to a person who holds one 
or more type ratings, the amended pilot certificate must bear the ``VFR 
only'' limitation for each aircraft type rating that the person did not 
demonstrate instrument competency.
    (f) Multiengine airplane with a single-pilot station. An applicant 
for a type rating, at other than the ATP certification level, in a 
multiengine airplane with a single-pilot station must perform the 
practical test in the multi-seat version of that airplane, or the 
practical test may be performed in the single-seat version of that 
airplane if the Examiner is in a position to observe the applicant 
during the practical test in the case where there is no multi-seat 
version of that multiengine airplane.
    (g) Single-engine airplane with a single-pilot station. An 
applicant for a type rating, at other than the ATP certification level, 
in a single engine airplane with a single-pilot station must perform 
the practical test in the multi-seat version of that single-engine 
airplane, or the practical test may be performed in the single-seat 
version of that airplane if the Examiner is in a position to observe 
the applicant during the practical test in the case where there is no 
multi-seat version of that single-engine airplane.
    (h) Aircraft category and class ratings for the operation of 
aircraft with experimental certificates. A person holding a 
recreational, private, or commercial pilot certificate may apply for a 
category and class rating limited to a specific make and model of 
experimental aircraft, provided--
    (1) The person logged 5 hours flight time while acting as pilot in 
command in the same category, class, make, and model of aircraft.
    (2) The person received a logbook endorsement from an authorized 
instructor who determined the pilot's proficiency to act as pilot in 
command of the same category, class, make, and model of aircraft.
    (3) The flight time specified under paragraph (h)(1) of this 
section must have been logged between September 1, 2004 and August 31, 
2005.
    (i) Waiver authority. An Examiner who conducts a practical test may 
waive any task for which the FAA has provided waiver authority.

    16. Add new Sec.  61.64 to read as follows:


Sec.  61.64  Use of a flight simulator and flight training device.

    (a) Use of a flight simulator for the airplane rating. If an 
applicant uses a flight simulator for training or the practical test 
for an airplane category, class, or type rating--
    (1) The flight simulator--
    (i) Must represent the category, class, and type of airplane rating 
(if a type rating is applicable) for the rating sought;
    (ii) Must be used in accordance with an approved course of training 
under part 141 or part 142 of this chapter; or under part 121 or part 
135 of this chapter, provided the applicant is a pilot employee of that 
air carrier operator;
    (iii) At a minimum, must be qualified and approved as a Level C 
flight simulator if the applicant performs any portion of the practical 
test in the flight simulator; and
    (iv) At a minimum, must be qualified and approved as a Level A 
flight simulator if the applicant uses the flight simulator for any 
training;
    (2) If the type rating is for a turbojet airplane, the applicant 
must--
    (i) Hold a type rating in a turbojet airplane of the same class of 
airplane, and that type rating may not contain a supervised operating 
experience limitation;
    (ii) Have 1,000 hours of flight time in two different turbojet 
airplanes of the same class of airplane;
    (iii) Have been appointed by the U.S. Armed Forces as a pilot in 
command in a turbojet airplane of the same class of airplane; or
    (iv) Have 500 hours of flight time in the same type of airplane.
    (3) If the type rating is for a turbo propeller airplane, the 
applicant must--
    (i) Hold a type rating in a turbo-propeller airplane of the same 
class of airplane, and that type rating may not contain a supervised 
operating experience limitation;
    (ii) Have 1,000 hours of flight time in two different turbo-
propeller airplanes of the same class of airplane;
    (iii) Have been appointed by the U.S. Armed Forces as a pilot in 
command in a turbo-propeller airplane of the same class of airplane; or
    (iv) Have 500 hours of flight time in the same type of airplane.
    (4) If the applicant does not meet the requirements of paragraph 
(a)(2) or (a)(3) of this section, then--
    (i) The applicant must complete the following tasks on the 
practical test in the airplane of the category, class, and type of 
airplane rating (if a type rating is applicable) for which the airplane 
rating applies: preflight inspection, normal takeoff, normal instrument 
landing system approach, missed approach, and normal landing.
    (ii) After passing the practical test, the applicant's pilot 
certificate must state: ``The [name the category, class, and type of 
airplane rating (if a type rating is applicable)] is subject to 
additional pilot in command limitations,'' and the applicant is 
restricted from serving as a pilot in command in that category, class, 
and type of airplane rating (if a type rating is applicable).
    (iii) The limitation described under paragraph (a)(4)(ii) of this 
section may be removed from the applicant's pilot certificate if the 
applicant--
    (A) Logs 25 hours of flight time in the category and class of 
airplane for the rating sought, and if a type rating is being sought, 
the flight time must be performed in the same type of airplane for the 
type rating sought;
    (B) Performs the 25 hours of flight time under the direct 
observation of a pilot in command who holds the appropriate airplane 
category, class, and type rating, without limitations, in the same 
category, class, and type of airplane rating, if a type rating is 
applicable;
    (C) Logs each flight and the pilot in command who observed the 
flight attests to each flight;
    (D) Obtains the flight time while in the pilot in command seat of 
the appropriate airplane category, class, and type, if a type rating is 
appropriate; and
    (E) Has an Examiner review the pilot logbook and endorse that 
logbook, attesting to compliance with the required supervised operating 
experience.
    (b) Use of a flight training device for the airplane rating. If an 
applicant uses a flight training device for training for the airplane 
category, class, or type rating, the applicant must meet the 
requirements of paragraph (a)(2), (a)(3) or (a)(4) of this section, and 
the flight training device--
    (1) Must represent the category, class, and type of airplane rating 
(if a type rating is applicable) for the rating.
    (2) Must be used in accordance with an approved course of training 
under part 141 or part 142 of this chapter, or under part 121 or part 
135 of this

[[Page 5839]]

chapter, provided the applicant is a pilot employee of that air carrier 
operator.
    (3) Must be qualified and approved at or above a Level 2 flight 
training device if the applicant completes the entire practical test in 
the airplane.
    (4) Must be qualified and approved at or above a Level 5 flight 
training device if the applicant uses a flight simulator for any 
portion of the practical test.
    (c) Use of a flight simulator for the helicopter rating. If an 
applicant uses a flight simulator for training or the practical test 
for the helicopter class or type rating,
    (1) The flight simulator--
    (i) Must represent the class and type of helicopter rating (if a 
type rating is applicable) for the rating;
    (ii) Must be used in accordance with an approved course of training 
under part 141 or part 142 of this chapter, or under part 135 of this 
chapter, provided the applicant is a pilot employee of that part 135 
operator;
    (iii) At a minimum, must be qualified and approved as a Level C 
flight simulator if the applicant performs any portion of the practical 
test in a flight simulator; and
    (iv) At a minimum, must be qualified and approved as a Level A 
flight simulator if the applicant uses a flight simulator for any 
training.
    (2) The applicant must meet one of the following requirements--
    (i) Hold a type rating in a helicopter and that type rating may not 
contain the supervised operating experience limitation;
    (ii) Have been appointed by the U.S. Armed Forces as a pilot in 
command of a helicopter;
    (iii) Have 500 hours of flight time in the type of helicopter; or
    (iv) Have 1,000 hours of flight time in two different types of 
helicopters.
    (3) If the applicant does not meet any of the requirements of 
paragraph (c)(2) of this section, then--
    (i) The applicant must complete the following tasks on the 
practical test in the helicopter class and type rating (if a type 
rating is applicable) for which the rating applies: Preflight 
inspection, normal takeoff, normal instrument landing system approach, 
missed approach, and normal landing.
    (ii) After passing the practical test, the applicant's pilot 
certificate must state: ``The [name the helicopter class, and type of 
helicopter rating (if a type rating is applicable)] rating is subject 
to additional pilot in command limitations,'' and the applicant is 
restricted from serving as a pilot in command in that helicopter class 
and type of helicopter rating (if a type rating is applicable).
    (iii) The limitation described under paragraph (c)(3)(ii) of this 
section may be removed from the pilot certificate if the applicant 
complies with the following--
    (A) Logs 25 hours of flight time in the class of helicopter for the 
rating sought, and if the person applied for a type rating, the flight 
time must be performed in the same type of helicopter for the type 
rating sought;
    (B) Performs the 25 hours of flight time under the direct 
observation of a pilot in command who holds the appropriate class and 
type of helicopter rating (if a type rating is applicable), without 
limitations, in the same class, and type of helicopter rating, if a 
type rating is applicable;
    (C) Logs each flight and the pilot in command who observed the 
flight attests to each flight;
    (D) Performs the flight time while in the pilot in command seat of 
the appropriate class and type of helicopter rating, if a type rating 
is appropriate; and
    (E) Has an Examiner review the pilot logbook and endorse that 
logbook, attesting to compliance with the required supervised operating 
experience.
    (d) Use of a flight training device for the helicopter rating. If 
an applicant uses a flight training device for training for the 
helicopter class or type rating, the applicant must meet the 
requirements of either paragraph (c)(2) or (3) of this section and the 
flight training device--
    (1) Must represent the class and type of helicopter rating (if a 
type rating is applicable) for the rating.
    (2) Must be used in accordance with an approved course of training 
under part 141 or part 142 of this chapter, or under part 135 of this 
chapter, provided the applicant is a pilot employee of that part 135 
operator.
    (3) Must be qualified and approved at or above a Level 2 flight 
training device if the applicant completes the entire practical test in 
the helicopter.
    (4) Must be qualified and approved at or above a Level 5 flight 
training device if the applicant uses a flight simulator for any 
portion of the practical test.
    (e) Use of a flight simulator for the powered-lift rating. If an 
applicant uses a flight simulator for training or the practical test 
for the powered-lift category or type rating--
    (1) The flight simulator--
    (i) Must represent the category and type of powered-lift rating (if 
a type rating is applicable) for the rating;
    (ii) Must be used in accordance with an approved course of training 
under part 141 or part 142 of this chapter, or under part 121 or part 
135 of this chapter, provided the applicant is a pilot employee of that 
air carrier operator;
    (iii) At a minimum, must be qualified and approved as a Level C 
flight simulator if the applicant performs any portion of the practical 
test in a flight simulator; and
    (iv) At a minimum, must be qualified and approved as a Level A 
flight simulator if the applicant uses a flight simulator for any 
training.
    (2) The applicant must meet one of the following requirements--
    (i) Hold a type rating in a powered-lift without a supervised 
operating experience limitation;
    (ii) Have been appointed by the U.S. Armed Forces as a pilot in 
command of a powered-lift;
    (iii) Have 500 hours of flight time in the type of powered-lift; or
    (iv) Have 1,000 hours of flight time in two different types of 
powered-lifts.
    (3) If the applicant does not meet any of the requirements of 
paragraph (e)(2) of this section, then--
    (i) The applicant must complete the following tasks on the 
practical test in the powered-lift of the category and type of powered-
lift rating (if a type rating is applicable) for which the rating 
applies: preflight inspection, normal takeoff, normal instrument 
landing system approach, missed approach, and normal landing.
    (ii) After passing the practical test, the applicant's pilot 
certificate must state: ``The [name of the category and type of 
powered-lift rating (if a type rating is applicable)] rating is subject 
to additional pilot in command limitations,'' and that applicant is 
restricted from serving as a pilot in command in that category and type 
of powered-lift rating (if a type rating is applicable).
    (iii) The limitation described under paragraph (e)(3)(ii) of this 
section may be removed from the pilot certificate if the applicant 
complies with the following--
    (A) Logs 25 hours of flight time in the powered-lift category for 
the rating sought, and if a type rating is being sought, the flight 
time must be performed in the same type of powered-lift for the type 
rating sought;
    (B) Performs the 25 hours flight time under the direct observation 
of a pilot in command who holds the category and type of powered-lift 
rating (if a type rating is applicable), without limitations, in the 
same category and type of powered-lift rating, if a type rating is 
applicable;

[[Page 5840]]

    (C) Logs each flight and the pilot in command who observed the 
flight attests to each flight;
    (D) Performs the flight time while in the pilot in command seat of 
the appropriate category and type of powered-lift rating, if a type 
rating is appropriate; and
    (E) Has an Examiner review the pilot logbook and endorse that 
logbook, attesting to compliance with the required supervised operating 
experience.
    (f) Use of a flight training device for the powered-lift rating. 
Whenever an applicant uses a flight training device for training for 
the powered-lift category or type rating, the flight training device 
must meet the following requirements, and the applicant must meet the 
requirements of either paragraph (e)(2) or (e)(3) of this section.
    (1) The flight training device must represent the class and type of 
powered-lift rating (if a type rating is applicable) for the rating.
    (2) The flight training device must be used in accordance with an 
approved course of training under part 141 or part 142 of this chapter; 
or under part 121 or part 135 of this chapter, provided the applicant 
is a pilot employee of that air carrier operator.
    (3) If the applicant completes the entire practical test in the 
powered-lift, the flight training device used for training must be 
qualified and approved at or above a Level 2 flight training device.
    (4) If an applicant uses a flight simulator for any portion of the 
practical test, the flight training device used for training must be 
qualified and approved at or above a Level 5 flight training device.

    17. Amend Sec.  61.65 by:
    A. Revising paragraph (d);
    B. Redesignating existing paragraph (e) as paragraph (g);
    C. Adding new paragraphs (e), (f), and (h);
    D. Revising newly designated paragraph (g) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.65  Instrument rating requirements.

* * * * *
    (d) Aeronautical experience for the instrument-airplane rating. A 
person who applies for an instrument-airplane rating must have logged:
    (1) Fifty hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command, 
of which 10 hours must have been in an airplane; and
    (2) Forty hours of actual or simulated instrument time in the areas 
of operation listed in paragraph (c) of this section, of which 15 hours 
must have been received from an authorized instructor who holds an 
instrument-airplane rating, and the instrument time includes:
    (i) Three hours of instrument flight training from an authorized 
instructor in an airplane that is appropriate to the instrument-
airplane rating within 2 calendar months before the date of the 
practical test; and
    (ii) Instrument flight training on cross-country flight procedures, 
including one cross-country flight in an airplane with an authorized 
instructor, that is performed under instrument flight rules, and a 
flight plan has been filed with an air traffic control facility, and 
involves--
    (A) A flight of 250 nautical miles along airways or by directed 
routing from an air traffic control facility;
    (B) An instrument approach at each airport; and
    (C) Three different kinds of approaches with the use of navigation 
systems.
    (e) Aeronautical experience for the instrument-helicopter rating. A 
person who applies for an instrument-helicopter rating must have 
logged:
    (1) Fifty hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command, 
of which 10 hours must have been in a helicopter; and
    (2) Forty hours of actual or simulated instrument time in the areas 
of operation listed under paragraph (c) of this section, of which 15 
hours must have been with an authorized instructor who holds an 
instrument-helicopter rating, and the instrument time includes:
    (i) Three hours of instrument flight training from an authorized 
instructor in a helicopter that is appropriate to the instrument-
helicopter rating within 2 calendar months before the date of the 
practical test; and
    (ii) Instrument flight training on cross-country flight procedures, 
including one cross-country flight in a helicopter with an authorized 
instructor that is performed under instrument flight rules and a flight 
plan has been filed with an air traffic control facility, and 
involves--
    (A) A flight of 100 nautical miles along airways or by directed 
routing from an air traffic control facility;
    (B) An instrument approach at each airport; and
    (C) Three different kinds of approaches with the use of navigation 
systems.
    (f) Aeronautical experience for the instrument-powered-lift rating. 
A person who applies for an instrument-powered-lift rating must have 
logged:
    (1) Fifty hours of cross-country flight time as pilot in command, 
of which 10 hours cross-country must have been in a powered-lift; and
    (2) Forty hours of actual or simulated instrument time in the areas 
of operation listed under paragraph (c) of this section, of which 15 
hours must have been received from an authorized instructor who holds 
an instrument-powered-lift rating, and the instrument time includes:
    (i) Three hours of instrument flight training from an authorized 
instructor in a powered-lift that is appropriate to the instrument-
powered-lift rating within 2 calendar months before the date of the 
practical test; and
    (ii) Instrument flight training on cross-country flight procedures, 
including one cross-country flight in a powered-lift with an authorized 
instructor that is performed under instrument flight rules and a flight 
plan has been filed with an air traffic control facility, and 
involves--
    (A) A flight of 250 nautical miles along airways or by directed 
routing from an air traffic control facility;
    (B) An instrument approach at each airport; and
    (C) Three different kinds of approaches with the use of navigation 
systems.
    (g) Use of flight simulators or flight training devices. If the 
instrument time was provided by an authorized instructor in a flight 
simulator or flight training device--
    (1) A maximum of 30 hours may be performed in that flight simulator 
or flight training device if the instrument time was completed in 
accordance with part 142 of this chapter; or
    (2) A maximum of 20 hours may be performed in that flight simulator 
or flight training device if the instrument time was not completed in 
accordance with part 142 of this chapter.
    (h) Use of a personal computer aviation training device. A maximum 
of 10 hours of instrument time received in a personal computer aviation 
training device may be credited for the instrument time requirements of 
this section if--
    (1) The device is approved and authorized by the FAA;
    (2) An authorized instructor provides the instrument time in the 
device;
    (3) No more than 10 hours of instrument time in a flight simulator 
or flight training device was credited for the instrument time 
requirements of this section;
    (4) A view limiting device was worn by the applicant when logging 
instrument time in the device; and

[[Page 5841]]

    (5) The FAA approved the instrument training and instrument tasks 
performed in the device.

    18. Amend Sec.  61.69 by revising paragraphs (a)(1), (4), and (6) 
introductory text to read as follows:


Sec.  61.69  Glider and unpowered ultralight vehicle towing: Experience 
and training requirements.

    (a) * * *
    (1) Holds a current and valid private, commercial or airline 
transport pilot certificate with a category rating for powered 
aircraft;
* * * * *
    (4) Except as provided in paragraph (b) of this section, has logged 
at least three flights as the sole manipulator of the controls of an 
aircraft while towing a glider or unpowered ultralight vehicle, or has 
simulated towing flight procedures in an aircraft while accompanied by 
a pilot who meets the requirements of paragraphs (c) and (d) of this 
section.
* * * * *
    (6) Within 24 calendar months before the flight has--
* * * * *
    19. Revise Sec.  61.73 to read as follows:


Sec.  61.73  Military pilots or former military pilots: Special rules.

    (a) General. Except for a person who has been removed from flying 
status for lack of proficiency or because of a disciplinary action 
involving aircraft operations, a U.S. military pilot or former military 
pilot who meets the requirements of this section may apply, on the 
basis of his or her military pilot qualifications, for:
    (1) A commercial pilot certificate with the appropriate aircraft 
category and class rating.
    (2) An instrument rating with the appropriate aircraft rating.
    (3) A type rating.
    (b) Military pilots and former military pilots in an Armed Force of 
the United States. A person who qualifies as a military pilot or former 
military pilot in the U.S. Armed Forces may apply for a pilot 
certificate and ratings under paragraph (a) of this section if that 
person--
    (1) Presents evidentiary documents described under paragraphs 
(h)(1), (2), and (3) of this section that show the person's status in 
the U.S. Armed Forces.
    (2) Has passed the military competency aeronautical knowledge test 
on the appropriate parts of this chapter for commercial pilot 
privileges and limitations, air traffic and general operating rules, 
and accident reporting rules.
    (3) Presents official U.S. military records that shows compliance 
with one of the following requirements--
    (i) Prior to the date of the application, passing an official U.S. 
military pilot and instrument proficiency check in a military aircraft 
of the kind of aircraft category, class, and type, if class or type of 
aircraft is applicable, for the ratings sought; or
    (ii) Prior to the date of application, logging 10 hours of pilot 
time as a military pilot in a U.S. military aircraft in the kind of 
aircraft category, class, and type, if a class rating or type rating is 
applicable, for the aircraft rating sought.
    (c) A military pilot of an Armed Force of a foreign contracting 
State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation. A person who 
is a military pilot of an Armed Force of a foreign contracting State to 
the Convention on International Civil Aviation and is assigned to pilot 
duties in the U.S. Armed Forces, for purposes other than receiving 
flight training, may apply for a commercial pilot certificate and 
ratings under paragraph (a) of this section, provided that person--
    (1) Presents evidentiary documents described under paragraph (h)(4) 
of this section that shows the person is a military pilot of an Armed 
Force of a foreign contracting State to the Convention on International 
Civil Aviation, and is assigned to pilot duties in an Armed Force of 
the United States, for purposes other than receiving flight training.
    (2) Has passed the military competency aeronautical knowledge test 
on the appropriate parts of this chapter for commercial pilot 
privileges and limitations, air traffic and general operating rules, 
and accident reporting rules.
    (3) Presents official U.S. military records that show compliance 
with one of the following requirements:
    (i) Prior to the date of the application, passed an official U.S. 
military pilot and instrument proficiency check in a military aircraft 
of the kind of aircraft category, class, or type, if class or type of 
aircraft is applicable, for the ratings; or
    (ii) Prior to the date of application, logged 10 hours of pilot 
time as a military pilot in a U.S. military aircraft of the kind of 
category, class, and type of aircraft, if a class rating or type rating 
is applicable, for the aircraft rating.
    (d) Instrument rating. A person who is qualified as a U.S. military 
pilot or former military pilot may apply for an instrument rating to be 
added to a pilot certificate if that person has--
    (1) Passed an instrument proficiency check by the U.S. Armed Forces 
in the aircraft category for the instrument rating sought; and
    (2) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person is 
instrument pilot qualified by the U.S. Armed Forces to conduct 
instrument flying on Federal airways in that aircraft category and 
class for the instrument rating sought.
    (e) Aircraft type rating. An aircraft type rating may only be 
issued for a type of aircraft that has a comparable civilian type 
designation by the Administrator.
    (f) Aircraft type rating placed on an airline transport pilot 
certificate. A person who is a military pilot or former military pilot 
of the U.S. Armed Forces and requests an aircraft type rating to be 
placed on an existing U.S. airline transport pilot certificate may be 
issued the rating at the airline transport pilot certification level, 
provided that person:
    (1) Holds a category and class rating for that type of aircraft at 
the airline transport pilot certification level; and
    (2) Has passed an official U.S. military pilot check and instrument 
proficiency check in that type of aircraft.
    (g) Flight instructor certificate and ratings. A person who is a 
U.S. military instructor pilot may apply for and be issued a flight 
instructor certificate with the appropriate ratings if that person:
    (1) Holds a commercial or airline transport pilot certificate with 
the appropriate aircraft category and class rating, if a class rating 
is appropriate, for the flight instructor rating sought;
    (2) Holds an instrument rating on the pilot certificate that is 
appropriate to the flight instructor rating sought; and
    (3) Presents the following evidentiary documents:
    (i) A knowledge test report that shows the person passed a 
knowledge test on the aeronautical knowledge areas listed under Sec.  
61.185(a) that are appropriate to the flight instructor rating;
    (ii) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person is 
qualified as a military instructor pilot for the flight instructor 
rating;
    (iii) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person is 
a military instructor pilot for the flight instructor rating;
    (iv) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person 
graduated from a U.S. Armed Forces' instructor pilot training school 
and received an aircraft rating qualification as a military instructor 
pilot that is appropriate to the flight instructor rating; and
    (v) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person 
passed an instructor pilot proficiency check in an aircraft as a 
military instructor pilot in

[[Page 5842]]

the U.S. Armed Forces that is appropriate to the flight instructor 
rating.
    (h) Evidentiary documents for qualifying for a pilot certificate 
and rating. The following documents are required in order for a person 
to be able to apply for a pilot certificate and rating:
    (1) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person is 
or was a military pilot.
    (2) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person 
graduated from a U.S. Armed Forces undergraduate pilot training school 
and received a rating qualification as a military pilot.
    (3) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the pilot 
passed a pilot proficiency check and instrument proficiency check in an 
aircraft as a military pilot.
    (4) If a person is a military pilot of an Armed Force from a 
foreign contracting State to the Convention on International Civil 
Aviation and is applying for a pilot certificate and rating, that 
person must present the following:
    (i) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person is a 
military pilot in an Armed Force of the United States;
    (ii) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows the person is 
assigned as a military pilot with an Armed Force of the United States 
for purposes other than receiving flight training;
    (iii) An official record that shows the person graduated from a 
military undergraduate pilot training school from an Armed Force from a 
foreign contracting State to the Convention on International Civil 
Aviation or from an Armed Force of the United States, and received a 
qualification as a military pilot; and
    (iv) An official U.S. Armed Forces record that shows that the 
person passed a pilot proficiency check and instrument proficiency 
check in an aircraft as a military pilot in an Armed Force of the 
United States.

    20. Amend Sec.  61.75 by revising paragraphs (a), (b) introductory 
text, (b)(2), (b)(3), (c), (d) introductory text, (e)(1), (e)(4), (f), 
and (g) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.75  Private pilot certificate issued on the basis of a foreign 
pilot license.

    (a) General. A person who holds a valid foreign pilot license at 
the private pilot level or higher that was issued by a contracting 
State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation may apply for 
and be issued a U.S. private pilot certificate with the appropriate 
ratings if the foreign pilot license meets the requirements of this 
section.
    (b) Certificate issued. A U.S. private pilot certificate issued 
under this section must specify the person's foreign license number and 
country of issuance. A person who holds a valid foreign pilot license 
issued by a contracting State to the Convention on International Civil 
Aviation may be issued a U.S. private pilot certificate based on the 
foreign pilot license without any further showing of proficiency, 
provided the applicant:
    (1) * * *
    (2) Holds a valid foreign pilot license, at the private pilot 
license level or higher, that does not contain a limitation stating 
that the applicant has not met all of the standards of ICAO for that 
license;
    (3) Does not hold a U.S. pilot certificate other than a U.S. 
student pilot certificate;
* * * * *
    (c) Aircraft ratings issued. Aircraft ratings listed on a person's 
foreign pilot license, in addition to any issued after testing under 
the provisions of this part, may be placed on that person's U.S. pilot 
certificate for private pilot privileges only.
    (d) Instrument ratings issued. A person who holds a valid 
instrument rating on the foreign pilot license issued by a contracting 
State to the Convention on International Civil Aviation may be issued 
an instrument rating on a U.S. pilot certificate provided:
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) May act as a pilot in command of a civil aircraft of the United 
States in accordance with the pilot privileges authorized by this part 
and the limitations placed on that U.S. pilot certificate;
* * * * *
    (4) Cannot exercise the privileges of that U.S. pilot certificate 
when the person's foreign pilot license is not valid.
    (f) Limitation on licenses used as the basis for a U.S. 
certificate. A person may use only one foreign pilot license as a basis 
for the issuance of a U.S. pilot certificate. The foreign pilot license 
and medical certification used as a basis for issuing a U.S. pilot 
certificate under this section must be written in English or 
accompanied by an English transcription that has been signed by an 
official or representative of the foreign aviation authority that 
issued the foreign pilot license.
    (g) Limitation placed on a U.S. pilot certificate. A U.S. pilot 
certificate issued under this section can only be exercised when the 
pilot has the foreign pilot license, upon which the issuance of the 
U.S. pilot certificate was based, in the holder's possession or is 
readily accessible in the aircraft.

    21. Amend Sec.  61.77 by:
    A. Revising the section heading; revising paragraphs (a)(2), 
(b)(1), and (b)(4);
    B. Removing paragraph (b)(5); and
    C. Redesignating paragraph (b)(6) as (b)(5) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.77  Special purpose pilot authorization: Operation of a civil 
aircraft of the United States and leased by a non -U.S. citizen.

    (a) * * *
    (2) For carrying persons or property for compensation or hire for 
operations in--
    (i) Scheduled international air services in turbojet-powered 
airplanes of U.S. registry;
    (ii) Scheduled international air services in airplanes of U.S. 
registry having a configuration of more than nine passenger seats, 
excluding crewmember seats;
    (iii) Nonscheduled international air transportation in airplanes of 
U.S. registry having a configuration of more than 30 passenger seats, 
excluding crewmember seats; or
    (iv) Scheduled international air services, or nonscheduled 
international air transportation, in airplanes of U.S. registry having 
a payload capacity of more than 7,500 pounds.
    (b) * * *
    (1) A valid foreign pilot license issued by the aeronautical 
authority of a contracting State to the Convention on International 
Civil Aviation that contains the appropriate aircraft category, class, 
type rating, if appropriate, and instrument rating for the aircraft to 
be flown;
* * * * *
    (4) Documentation the applicant meets the medical standards for the 
issuance of the foreign pilot license from the aeronautical authority 
of that contracting State to the Convention on International Civil 
Aviation; and
* * * * *
    22. Amend Sec.  61.96 by revising paragraphs (b)(7) and (b)(8); and 
adding a new paragraph (b)(9) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.96  Applicability and eligibility requirements: General.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (7) Pass the practical test on the areas of operation listed under 
Sec.  61.98(b) of this part that apply to the aircraft category and 
class rating;
    (8) Comply with the sections of this part that apply to the 
aircraft category and class rating; and

[[Page 5843]]

    (9) Hold a U.S. student pilot certificate.

    23. Amend Sec.  61.101 by revising paragraph (e)(1)(iii) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.101  Recreational pilot privileges and limitations.

* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (iii) With a powerplant of more than 180 horsepower, except 
aircraft certificated in the rotorcraft category; or
* * * * *
    24. Amend Sec.  61.103 by adding new paragraph (j) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.103  Eligibility requirements: General.

* * * * *
    (j) Hold a valid U.S. student pilot certificate, or recreational 
pilot certificate.

    25. Amend Sec.  61.109 by revising paragraphs (a)(5)(ii), 
(b)(5)(ii), (c)(4)(ii), (d)(4)(ii), and (e)(5)(ii) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.109  Aeronautical experience.

    (a) * * *
    (5) * * *
    (ii) One solo cross-country flight of 150 nautical miles total 
distance, with full-stop landings at three points, and one segment of 
the flight consisting of a straight-line distance of more than 50 
nautical miles between the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (5) * * *
    (ii) One solo cross-country flight of 150 nautical miles total 
distance, with full-stop landings at three points, and one segment of 
the flight consisting of a straight-line distance of more than 50 
nautical miles between the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (ii) One solo cross-country flight of 100 nautical miles total 
distance, with landings at three points, and one segment of the flight 
being a straight-line distance of more than 25 nautical miles between 
the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (ii) One solo cross-country flight of 100 nautical miles total 
distance, with landings at three points, and one segment of the flight 
being a straight-line distance of more than 25 nautical miles between 
the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (5) * * *
    (ii) One solo cross-country flight of 150 nautical miles total 
distance, with full-stop landings at three points, and one segment of 
the flight consisting of a straight-line distance of more than 50 
nautical miles between the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    26. Amend Sec.  61.127 by:
    A. Redesignating paragraphs (b)(4)(vi) through (ix) as (b)(4)(vii) 
through (x);
    B. Adding a new paragraph (b)(4)(vi);
    C. Removing paragraph (b)(5)(vii); and
    D. Re-designating existing paragraphs (b)(5)(viii) through (xiii) 
as (b)(5)(vii) through (xii) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.127  Flight proficiency.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (vi) Ground reference maneuvers;
* * * * *
    27. Amend Sec.  61.129 by revising paragraphs (a)(3)(i), 
(a)(3)(iii), (a)(3)(iv), (a)(4) introductory text, (b)(3)(i), 
(b)(3)(iii), (b)(3)(iv), (c)(3)(i), (c)(3)(ii), (c)(3)(iii), (c)(4) 
introductory text, (d)(3)(i), (d)(3)(ii), (d)(3)(iii), (d)(4) 
introductory text, (e)(3)(i), (e)(3)(ii), (e)(3)(iii), (e)(4) 
introductory text, (g)(2) introductory text, (g)(3), (g)(4)(ii), 
(g)(4)(iii), and (i)(3) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.129  Aeronautical experience.

    (a) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) 10 hours of instrument training using a view limiting device 
including attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems. Five of the 10 hours of instrument training must 
be in a single-engine airplane;
* * * * *
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a single-engine airplane 
in day-time conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance 
of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a single-engine airplane in 
night-time conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance 
of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure; 
and
* * * * *
    (4) 10 hours of solo flight time in a single-engine airplane or 10 
hours of flight time performing the duties of pilot in command in a 
single-engine airplane with an authorized instructor on board (either 
of which may be credited towards the flight time requirement under 
paragraph (a)(2) of this section), on the areas of operation listed 
under Sec.  61.127(b)(1) that includes--
* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) Ten hours of instrument training using a view limiting device 
including attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems. Five of the 10 hours of instrument training must 
be in a multiengine airplane;
* * * * *
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a multiengine airplane in 
day-time conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of 
more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a multiengine airplane in 
night-time conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance 
of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure; 
and
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) Five hours on the control and maneuvering of a helicopter 
solely by reference to instruments using a view limiting device 
including attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems. This aeronautical experience may be performed in 
an aircraft, flight simulator, flight training device, or a personal 
computer aviation training device;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a helicopter in day-time 
conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 
50 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a helicopter in night-time 
conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 
50 nautical miles from the original point of departure; and
* * * * *
    (4) Ten hours of solo flight time in a helicopter or 10 hours of 
flight time performing the duties of pilot in command in a helicopter 
with an authorized instructor on board (either of which may be credited 
towards the flight time requirement under paragraph (c)(2) of this 
section), on the areas of operation listed under Sec.  61.127(b)(3) 
that includes--
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) 2.5 hours on the control and maneuvering of a gyroplane solely 
by

[[Page 5844]]

reference to instruments using a view limiting device including 
attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational systems. 
This aeronautical experience may be performed in an aircraft, flight 
simulator, flight training device, or a personal computer aviation 
training device;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a gyroplane in day-time 
conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 
50 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) Two hours of flight training during night-time conditions in 
a gyroplane at an airport, that includes 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to 
a full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic 
pattern); and
* * * * *
    (4) Ten hours of solo flight time in a gyroplane or 10 hours of 
flight time performing the duties of pilot in command in a gyroplane 
with an authorized instructor on board (either of which may be credited 
towards the flight time requirement under paragraph (d)(2) of this 
section), on the areas of operation listed under Sec.  61.127(b)(4) of 
this part that includes--
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) Ten hours of instrument training using a view limiting device 
including attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems. Five of the 10 hours of instrument training must 
be in a powered-lift;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a powered-lift in day-time 
conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 
100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in a powered-lift in night-
time conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more 
than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure; and
* * * * *
    (4) Ten hours of solo flight time in a powered-lift or 10 hours of 
flight time performing the duties of pilot in command in a powered-lift 
with an authorized instructor on board (either of which may be credited 
towards the flight time requirement under paragraph (e)(2) of this 
section), on the areas of operation listed under Sec.  61.127(b)(5) of 
this part that includes--
* * * * *
    (g) * * *
    (2) Thirty hours of pilot in command time in airships or performing 
the duties of pilot in command in an airship with an authorized 
instructor aboard, which consists of--
* * * * *
    (3) Forty hours of instrument time to include--
    (i) Instrument training using a view limiting device for attitude 
instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual flight 
attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational systems; and
    (ii) Twenty hours of instrument flight time, of which 10 hours must 
be in flight in airships.
    (4) * * *
    (ii) One 1-hour cross-country flight in an airship in day-time 
conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 
25 nautical miles from the point of departure; and
    (iii) One 1-hour cross-country flight in an airship in night-time 
conditions that consists of a total straight-line distance of more than 
25 nautical miles from the point of departure.
* * * * *
    (i) * * *
    (3) Except when fewer hours are approved by the FAA, an applicant 
for the commercial pilot certificate with the airplane or powered-lift 
rating who has completed 190 hours of aeronautical experience is 
considered to have met the total aeronautical experience requirements 
of this section, provided the applicant satisfactorily completed an 
approved commercial pilot course under part 142 of this chapter and the 
approved course was appropriate to the commercial pilot certificate and 
aircraft rating sought.

    28. Amend Sec.  61.133 by revising paragraph (a)(1) introductory 
text to read as follows:


Sec.  61.133  Commercial pilot privileges and limitations.

    (a) * * *
    (1) General. A person who holds a current and valid commercial 
pilot certificate may act as pilot in command of an aircraft--
* * * * *
    29. Amend Sec.  61.153 by revising paragraphs (d)(1), (d)(3), and 
(h) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.153  Eligibility requirements: General.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) Holds a commercial pilot certificate with an instrument rating 
issued under this part;
* * * * *
    (3) Holds either a valid foreign airline transport pilot license 
with instrument privileges, or a valid foreign commercial pilot license 
with an instrument rating, that--
    (i) Was issued by a contracting State to the Convention on 
International Civil Aviation; and
    (ii) Contains no geographical limitations.
* * * * *
    (h) Comply with the sections of this subpart that apply to the 
aircraft category and class rating sought.
    30. Revise Sec.  61.157 to read as follows:


Sec.  61.157  Flight proficiency.

    (a) General.
    (1) The practical test for an airline transport pilot certificate 
is given for--
    (i) An airplane category and single-engine class rating.
    (ii) An airplane category and multiengine class rating.
    (iii) A rotorcraft category and helicopter class rating.
    (iv) A powered-lift category rating.
    (v) An aircraft type rating.
    (2) A person who is applying for an airline transport pilot 
practical test must meet--
    (i) The eligibility requirements of Sec.  61.153 of this part; and
    (ii) The aeronautical knowledge and aeronautical experience 
requirements of this subpart that apply to the aircraft category and 
class rating sought.
    (b) Aircraft type rating. Except as provided in paragraph (c) of 
this section, a person who applies for an aircraft type rating to be 
added to an airline transport pilot certificate or applies for a type 
rating to be concurrently completed with an airline transport pilot 
certificate:
    (1) Must receive and log ground and flight training from an 
authorized instructor on the areas of operation under this section that 
apply to the aircraft type rating;
    (2) Must receive a logbook endorsement from an authorized 
instructor that certifies the applicant completed the training on the 
areas of operation listed under paragraph (e) of this section that 
apply to the aircraft type rating; and
    (3) Must perform the practical test in actual or simulated 
instrument conditions, except as provided under paragraph (g) of this 
section.
    (c) Exceptions. A person who applies for an aircraft type rating to 
be added to an airline transport pilot certificate or an aircraft type 
rating concurrently with an airline transport pilot certificate, and 
who is an employee of a certificate holder operating under part 121 or 
part 135 of this chapter, does not need to comply with the requirements 
of paragraph (b) of this section if the applicant presents a training 
record that

[[Page 5845]]

shows completion of that certificate holder's approved pilot in command 
training program for the aircraft type rating.
    (d) Upgrading type ratings. Any type rating(s) and limitations on a 
pilot certificate of an applicant who completes an airline transport 
pilot practical test will be included at the airline transport pilot 
certification level, provided the applicant passes the practical test 
in the same category and class of aircraft for which the applicant 
holds the type rating(s).
    (e) Areas of operation.
    (1) For an airplane category--single-engine class rating:
    (i) Preflight preparation;
    (ii) Preflight procedures;
    (iii) Takeoff and departure phase;
    (iv) In-flight maneuvers;
    (v) Instrument procedures;
    (vi) Landings and approaches to landings;
    (vii) Normal and abnormal procedures;
    (viii) Emergency procedures; and
    (ix) Postflight procedures.
    (2) For an airplane category--multiengine class rating:
    (i) Preflight preparation;
    (ii) Preflight procedures;
    (iii) Takeoff and departure phase;
    (iv) In-flight maneuvers;
    (v) Instrument procedures;
    (vi) Landings and approaches to landings;
    (vii) Normal and abnormal procedures;
    (viii) Emergency procedures; and
    (ix) Postflight procedures.
    (3) For a powered-lift category rating:
    (i) Preflight preparation;
    (ii) Preflight procedures;
    (iii) Takeoff and departure phase;
    (iv) In-flight maneuvers;
    (v) Instrument procedures;
    (vi) Landings and approaches to landings;
    (vii) Normal and abnormal procedures;
    (viii) Emergency procedures; and
    (ix) Postflight procedures.
    (4) For a rotorcraft category--helicopter class rating:
    (i) Preflight preparation;
    (ii) Preflight procedures;
    (iii) Takeoff and departure phase;
    (iv) In-flight maneuvers;
    (v) Instrument procedures;
    (vi) Landings and approaches to landings;
    (vii) Normal and abnormal procedures;
    (viii) Emergency procedures; and
    (ix) Postflight procedures.
    (f) Proficiency and competency checks conducted under part 121 or 
part 135. (1) Completion of a pilot in command proficiency check under 
Sec.  121.441 of this chapter that is conducted by an Examiner or a FAA 
Aviation Safety Inspector satisfies the requirements of this section 
for the appropriate aircraft rating.
    (2) Completion of both the following checks that are conducted by 
an Examiner or a FAA Aviation Safety Inspector satisfies the 
requirements of this section for the appropriate aircraft rating--
    (i) Pilot in command proficiency check under Sec.  135.293 of this 
chapter; and
    (ii) Pilot in command instrument proficiency check under Sec.  
135.297 of this chapter.
    (g) Aircraft not capable of instrument maneuvers and procedures. An 
applicant may add a type rating to an airline transport pilot 
certificate with an aircraft that is not capable of the instrument 
maneuvers and procedures required on the practical test under the 
following circumstances--
    (1) The rating is limited to ``VFR only.''
    (2) The type rating is added to an airline transport pilot 
certificate that has instrument privileges in that category and class 
of aircraft.
    (3) The ``VFR only'' limitation may be removed for that aircraft 
type after the applicant:
    (i) Passes a practical test in that type of aircraft on the 
appropriate instrument maneuvers and procedures under Sec.  61.157 of 
this part; or
    (ii) Becomes qualified under Sec.  61.73(d) of this part for that 
type of aircraft.
    (h) Multiengine airplane with a single-pilot station. An applicant 
for a type rating, at the ATP certification level, in a multiengine 
airplane with a single-pilot station must perform the practical test in 
the multi-seat version of that airplane, or the practical test may be 
performed in the single-seat version of that airplane if the Examiner 
is in a position to observe the applicant during the practical test in 
the case where there is no multi-seat version of that multiengine 
airplane.
    (i) Single-engine airplane with a single-pilot station. An 
applicant for a type rating, at the ATP certification level, in a 
single-engine airplane with a single-pilot station must perform the 
practical test in the multi-seat version of that single-engine 
airplane, or the practical test may be performed in the single-seat 
version of that airplane if the Examiner is in a position to observe 
the applicant during the practical test in the case where there is no 
multi-seat version of that single-engine airplane.
    (j) Waiver authority. An Examiner who conducts a practical test may 
waive any task for which the FAA has provided waiver authority.
    31. Amend Sec.  61.159 by adding a new paragraph (c)(3); and 
revising paragraphs (d) and (e) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.159  Aeronautical experience: Airplane category rating.

* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (3) Flight-engineer time, provided the flight time--
    (i) Is acquired as a U.S. Armed Forces' flight engineer crewmember 
in an airplane that requires a flight engineer crewmember by the flight 
manual;
    (ii) Is acquired while the person is participating in a flight 
engineer crewmember training program for the U.S. Armed Forces; and
    (iii) Does not exceed 1 hour for each 3 hours of flight engineer 
flight time for a total credited time of no more than 500 hours.
    (d) An applicant will be issued an airline transport pilot 
certificate with the limitation, ``Holder does not meet the pilot in 
command aeronautical experience requirements of ICAO,'' as prescribed 
under Article 39 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, if 
the applicant does not meet the ICAO requirements contained in Annex 1 
``Personnel Licensing'' to the Convention on International Civil 
Aviation, but otherwise meets the aeronautical experience requirements 
of this section.
    (e) An applicant is entitled to an airline transport pilot 
certificate without the ICAO limitation specified under paragraph (d) 
of this section when the applicant presents satisfactory evidence of 
having met the ICAO requirements under paragraph (d) of this section 
and otherwise meets the aeronautical experience requirements of this 
section.

    32. Amend Sec.  61.167 by revising paragraphs (a) and (b)(3) to 
read as follows:


Sec.  61.167  Privileges.

    (a) A person who holds a valid airline transport pilot certificate 
is entitled to the same privileges as a person who holds a commercial 
pilot certificate with an instrument rating.
    (b) * * *
    (3) Only as provided in this section, except that an airline 
transport pilot who also holds a current and valid flight instructor 
certificate can exercise the instructor privileges under subpart H of 
this part for which he or she is rated; and
* * * * *

[[Page 5846]]

    33. Amend Sec.  61.187 by revising paragraph (b)(6)(vii) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.187  Flight proficiency.

* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (6) * * *
    (vii) Launches and landings;
* * * * *
    34. Amend Sec.  61.193 by revising the introductory text to read as 
follows:


Sec.  61.193  Flight instructor privileges.

    A person who holds a current and valid flight instructor 
certificate is authorized within the limitations of that person's 
flight instructor certificate and ratings to train and issue 
endorsements that are required for:
* * * * *
    35. Amend Sec.  61.195 by revising paragraphs (b), (c), and (d)(3) 
introductory text; and adding a new paragraph (k) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.195  Flight instructor limitations and qualifications.

* * * * *
    (b) Aircraft Ratings. A flight instructor may not conduct flight 
training in any aircraft for which the flight instructor does not hold:
    (1) A pilot certificate and flight instructor certificate with the 
applicable category and class rating; and
    (2) If appropriate, a type rating.
    (c) Instrument Rating. A flight instructor who provides instrument 
training for the issuance of an instrument rating, a type rating not 
limited to VFR, or the instrument training required for commercial 
pilot and airline transport pilot certificates must hold an instrument 
rating on his or her pilot certificate and flight instructor 
certificate that is appropriate to the category and class of aircraft 
for the training provided.
    (d) * * *
    (3) Student pilot's logbook for solo flight in a Class B airspace 
area or at an airport within Class B airspace unless that flight 
instructor has--
* * * * *
    (k) Training for night vision goggle operations. A flight 
instructor may not conduct training for night vision goggle operations 
unless the flight instructor:
    (1) Has a pilot and flight instructor certificate with the 
applicable category and class rating for the training;
    (2) If appropriate, has a type rating on his or her pilot 
certificate for the aircraft;
    (3) Is pilot-in-command qualified for night vision goggle 
operations, in accordance with Sec.  61.31(l);
    (4) Has logged 100 night vision goggle operations as the sole 
manipulator of the controls;
    (5) Has logged 20 night vision goggle operations as sole 
manipulator of the controls in the category and class, and type of 
aircraft, if aircraft class and type is appropriate, that the training 
will be given in;
    (6) Is qualified and current to act as a pilot in command in night 
vision goggle operations under Sec.  61.57(f) or (g); and
    (7) Has a logbook endorsement from an FAA Aviation Safety Inspector 
or a person who is authorized by the FAA to provide that logbook 
endorsement that states the flight instructor is authorized to perform 
the night vision goggle pilot in command qualification and recent 
flight experience requirements under Sec.  61.31(l) and Sec.  61.57(f) 
and (g).

    36. Amend Sec.  61.197 by revising the section heading and 
paragraphs (a) introductory text and (a)(2) introductory text to read 
as follows:


Sec.  61.197  Recent flight instructor experience.

    (a) A person who holds a valid flight instructor certificate must 
maintain the privileges under that certificate by--
* * * * *
    (2) Filing a completed and signed application and receiving an 
endorsement from an authorized Examiner in his or her logbook or on 
another suitable document that is acceptable to the FAA that certifies 
the flight instructor renewal applicant satisfactorily completed one of 
the following renewal requirements--
* * * * *
    37. Amend Sec.  61.199 by revising the section heading and 
paragraph (a) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.199  Expired flight instructor privileges.

    (a) Flight instructor certificates. The holder of a flight 
instructor certificate who has not complied with the recent flight 
instructor experience requirements under Sec.  61.197 may reinstate 
flight instructor privileges by:
    (1) Completing and passing a flight instructor practical test, as 
prescribed under Sec.  61.183(h); and
    (2) Receiving an endorsement in his or her logbook or on another 
document that is acceptable to the FAA that shows the applicant 
completed and passed a flight instructor practical test, as prescribed 
under Sec.  61.183(h).
* * * * *
    38. Amend Sec.  61.215 by revising paragraphs (a) introductory 
text, (b), (c) introductory text, and (d) to read as follows:


Sec.  61.215  Ground instructor privileges.

    (a) A person who holds a current and valid basic ground instructor 
rating is authorized to provide:
* * * * *
    (b) A person who holds a current and valid advanced ground 
instructor rating is authorized to provide:
    (1) Ground training on the aeronautical knowledge areas required 
for the issuance of any certificate or rating under this part except 
for the aeronautical knowledge areas required for an instrument rating;
    (2) The ground training required for any flight review except for 
the training required for an instrument rating; and
    (3) A recommendation for a knowledge test required for the issuance 
of any certificate or rating under this part except for an instrument 
rating.
    (c) A person who holds a current and valid instrument ground 
instructor rating is authorized to provide:
* * * * *
    (d) A person who holds a current and valid ground instructor 
certificate is authorized, within the limitations of the ratings on the 
certificate, to endorse the logbook or other training record of a 
person to whom the holder has provided the training or recommendation 
specified in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this section.

    39. Revise Sec.  61.217 to read as follows:


Sec.  61.217  Recent experience requirements.

    The holder of a ground instructor certificate may not perform the 
duties of a ground instructor unless the person can show that one of 
the following occurred during the preceding 12 calendar months:
    (a) Employment or activity as a ground instructor giving pilot, 
flight instructor, or ground instructor training;
    (b) Employment or activity as a flight instructor giving pilot, 
flight instructor, or ground instructor ground or flight training;
    (c) Completion of an approved flight instructor refresher course 
and receipt of a graduation certificate for that course; or
    (d) An endorsement from an authorized instructor certifying that 
the person has demonstrated knowledge in the subject areas prescribed 
under Sec. Sec.  61.213(a)(3) and (a)(4), as appropriate.

PART 91--GENERAL OPERATING AND FLIGHT RULES

    40. The authority citation for part 91 continues to read as 
follows:

     Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 1155, 40103, 40113, 40120, 44101, 
44111, 44701, 44709,

[[Page 5847]]

44711, 44712, 44715, 44716, 44717, 44722, 46306, 46315, 46316, 
46504, 46506-46507, 47122, 47508, 47528-47531, articles 12 and 29 of 
the Convention on International Civil Aviation (61 stat. 1180).

    41. Amend Sec.  91.205 by:
    A. Re-designating existing paragraph (h) as paragraph (i); and
    B. Adding a new paragraph (h) to read as follows:


Sec.  91.205  Powered civil aircraft with standard category U.S. 
airworthiness certificates; Instrument and equipment requirements.

* * * * *
    (h) Night vision goggle operations. For night vision goggle 
operations, the following instruments and equipment must be installed 
in the aircraft, functioning in a normal manner, and approved for use 
by the FAA:
    (1) Instruments and equipment specified in paragraph (b) of this 
section, instruments and equipment specified in paragraph (c) of this 
section;
    (2) Night vision goggles;
    (3) Interior and exterior aircraft lighting system required for 
night vision goggle operations;
    (4) Two-way radio communications system;
    (5) Gyroscopic pitch and bank indicator (artificial horizon); and
    (6) Generator or alternator of adequate capacity for the required 
instruments and equipment.
* * * * *

PART 141--PILOT SCHOOLS

    42. The authority citation for 14 CFR part 141 continues to read as 
follows:

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

    43. Revise Sec.  141.5 to read as follows:


Sec.  141.5  Requirements for a pilot school certificate.

    The FAA may issue a pilot school certificate with the appropriate 
ratings if, within the 24 calendar months before the date application 
is made, the applicant--
    (a) Completes the application for a pilot school certificate on the 
form and in the manner prescribed by the FAA;
    (b) Has held a provisional pilot school certificate;
    (c) Meets the applicable requirements under subparts A through C of 
this part for the school certificate and associated ratings sought;
    (d) Has trained and recommended 10 different people for a knowledge 
test or a practical test, or any combination thereof, and 80 percent of 
those persons passed their tests on the first attempt; and
    (e) Has graduated 10 different people from the school's approved 
training courses.
    44. Revise Sec.  141.9 to read as follows:


Sec.  141.9  Examining authority.

    The FAA issues examining authority to a pilot school for a training 
course if the pilot school and its training course meet the 
requirements of subpart D of this part.
    45. Amend Sec.  141.33 by revising paragraph (d)(2) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  141.33  Personnel.

* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (2) The school has an enrollment of 10 students at the time 
designation is sought.
* * * * *
    46. Revise Sec.  141.39 to read as follows:


Sec.  141.39  Aircraft.

    (a) When the school's training facility is located within the U.S., 
an applicant for a pilot school certificate or provisional pilot school 
certificate must show that each aircraft used by the school for flight 
training and solo flights:
    (1) Is a civil aircraft of the United States;
    (2) Is certificated with a standard or primary airworthiness 
certificate, unless the FAA determines otherwise because of the nature 
of the approved course;
    (3) Is maintained and inspected in accordance with the requirements 
for aircraft operated for hire under part 91, subpart E of this 
chapter;
    (4) Has two pilot stations with engine-power controls that can be 
easily reached and operated in a normal manner from both pilot stations 
(for flight training); and
    (5) Is equipped and maintained for IFR operations if used in a 
course involving IFR en route operations and instrument approaches. For 
training in the control and precision maneuvering of an aircraft by 
reference to instruments, the aircraft may be equipped as provided in 
the approved course of training.
    (b) When the school's training facility is located outside the U.S. 
and the training will be conducted outside the U.S., an applicant for a 
pilot school certificate or provisional pilot school certificate must 
show that each aircraft used by the school for flight training and solo 
flights:
    (1) Is either a civil aircraft of the United States or a civil 
aircraft of foreign registry;
    (2) Is certificated with a standard or primary airworthiness 
certificate or an equivalent certification from the foreign aviation 
authority;
    (3) Is maintained and inspected in accordance with the requirements 
for aircraft operated for hire under part 91, subpart E of this 
chapter, or in accordance with equivalent maintenance and inspection 
from the foreign aviation authority's requirements;
    (4) Has two pilot stations with engine-power controls that can be 
easily reached and operated in a normal manner from both pilot stations 
(for flight training); and
    (5) Is equipped and maintained for IFR operations if used in a 
course involving IFR en route operations and instrument approaches. For 
training in the control and precision maneuvering of an aircraft by 
reference to instruments, the aircraft may be equipped as provided in 
the approved course of training.

    47. Amend Sec.  141.53 by revising paragraph (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  141.53  Approval procedures for a training course: General.

* * * * *
    (c) Training courses. An applicant for a pilot school certificate 
or provisional pilot school certificate may request approval for the 
training courses specified under Sec.  141.11(b).

    48. Amend Sec.  141.55 by revising paragraphs (d) introductory 
text, (e) introductory text, and (e)(2)(ii) introductory text to read 
as follows:


Sec.  141.55  Training course: Contents.

* * * * *
    (d) A pilot school may request and receive initial approval for a 
period of not more than 24 calendar months for any training course 
under this part that does not meet the minimum ground and flight 
training time requirements, provided the following provisions are met:
* * * * *
    (e) A pilot school may request and receive final approval for any 
training course under this part that does not meet the minimum ground 
and flight training time requirements, provided the following 
conditions are met:
    (2) * * *
    (ii) At least 80 percent of those students passed the practical or 
knowledge test, as appropriate, on the first attempt, and that test was 
given by--
* * * * *
    49. Amend Sec.  141.77 by revising paragraph (c) to read as 
follows:


Sec.  141.77  Limitations.

* * * * *

[[Page 5848]]

    (c) A student may be given credit towards the curriculum 
requirements of a course for previous training under the following 
conditions:
    (1) If the student completed a proficiency test and knowledge test 
that was conducted by the receiving pilot school and the previous 
training was based on a part 141 or a part 142-approved flight training 
course, the credit is limited to not more than 50 percent of the flight 
training requirements of the curriculum.
    (2) If the student completed a knowledge test that was conducted by 
the receiving pilot school and the previous training was based on a 
part 141 or a part 142-approved aeronautical knowledge training course, 
the credit is limited to not more than 50 percent of the aeronautical 
knowledge training requirements of the curriculum.
    (3) If the student completed a proficiency test and knowledge test 
that was conducted by the receiving pilot school and the training was 
received from other than a part 141 or a part 142-approved flight 
training course, the credit is limited to not more than 25 percent of 
the flight training requirements of the curriculum.
    (4) If the student completed a knowledge test that was conducted by 
the receiving pilot school and the previous training was received from 
other than a part 141 or a part 142-approved aeronautical knowledge 
training course, the credit is limited to not more than 25 percent of 
the aeronautical knowledge training requirements of the curriculum.
    (5) Completion of previous training must be certified in the 
student's training record by the training provider or a management 
official within the training provider's organization, and must 
contain--
    (i) The kind and amount of training provided; and
    (ii) The result of each stage check and end-of-course test, if 
appropriate.
    50. Amend Sec.  141.85 by revising paragraphs (a) introductory text 
and (a)(1) to read as follows:


Sec.  141.85  Chief instructor responsibilities.

    (a) A chief instructor designated for a pilot school or provisional 
pilot school is responsible for:
    (1) Certifying each student's training record, graduation 
certificate, stage check and end-of-course test reports, and 
recommendation for course completion, unless the duties are delegated 
by the chief instructor to an assistant chief instructor or 
recommending instructor;
* * * * *
    51. Amend Appendix B to part 141 by revising paragraph 2; 
paragraphs 4.(b)(1)(iii), 4.(b)(2)(iii), and 4.(b)(5)(iii); and 
5.(a)(1), 5.(b)(1), 5.(c)(1), 5.(d)(1), and 5.(e)(1) to read as 
follows:

Appendix B to Part 141--Private Pilot Certification Course

* * * * *
    2. Eligibility for enrollment. A person must hold a valid 
recreational pilot certificate or valid student pilot certificate 
prior to enrollment in the solo flight phase of the private pilot 
certification course.
* * * * *
    4. * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane on 
the control and maneuvering of a single-engine airplane 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; and
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a multiengine airplane on 
the control and maneuvering of a multiengine airplane 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; and
* * * * *
    (5) * * *
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a powered-lift on the 
control and maneuvering of a powered-lift 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; and
* * * * *
    5. * * *
    (a) * * *
    (1) One solo 100 nautical miles cross-country flight with 
landings at a minimum of three points and one segment of the flight 
consisting of a straight-line distance of more than 50 nautical 
miles between the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) One 100 nautical miles cross-country flight with landings at 
a minimum of three points and one segment of the flight consisting 
of a straight-line distance of more than 50 nautical miles between 
the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (c) * * *
    (1) One solo 100 nautical miles cross-country flight with 
landings at a minimum of three points and one segment of the flight 
consisting of a straight-line distance of more than 25 nautical 
miles between the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (1) One solo 100 nautical miles cross-country flight with 
landings at a minimum of three points and one segment of the flight 
consisting of a straight-line distance of more than 25 nautical 
miles between the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    (e) * * *
    (1) One solo 100 nautical miles cross-country flight with 
landings at a minimum of three points and one segment of the flight 
consisting of a straight-line distance of more than 50 nautical 
miles between the takeoff and landing locations; and
* * * * *
    52. Amend Appendix C to part 141 by revising paragraphs 4.(b)(2) 
through 4.(b)(4); adding new paragraphs 4.(b)(5) and (6); and revising 
the introductory language of paragraph 4.(d) to read as follows:

Appendix C to Part 141--Instrument Rating Course

* * * * *
    4. * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (2) Credit for training in a flight simulator that meets the 
requirements of Sec.  141.41(a) of this part cannot exceed 50 
percent of the total flight training hour requirements of the course 
or of this section, whichever is less.
    (3) Credit for training in a flight training device that meets 
the requirements of Sec.  141.41(b) of this part cannot exceed 40 
percent of the total flight training hour requirements of the course 
or of this section, whichever is less.
    (4) Credit for training in flight simulators and flight training 
devices, if used in combination, cannot exceed 50 percent of the 
total flight training hour requirements of the course or of this 
section, whichever is less. However, credit for training in a flight 
training device cannot exceed the limitation provided for in 
paragraph (b)(3) of this section.
    (5) Credit for training in an approved personal computer 
aviation training device cannot exceed 10 percent of the total 
flight training hour requirements of the course or of this section, 
whichever is less.
    (6) Credit for training in flight simulators, flight training 
devices, and personal computer aviation training devices, if used in 
combination, cannot exceed 50 percent of the total flight training 
hour requirements of the course or of this section, whichever is 
less. However, credit for training in a personal computer aviation 
training device cannot exceed the limitation provided under 
paragraph (b)(5) of this section.
* * * * *
    (d) Each course must include flight training on the areas of 
operation listed under this paragraph appropriate to the instrument 
aircraft category and class rating (if a class

[[Page 5849]]

rating is appropriate) for which the course applies:
* * * * *
    53. Amend Appendix D to part 141 by revising paragraphs 
4.(b)(1)(i), (ii), (iii), and (iv); revising paragraphs 4.(b)(2)(i), 
(iii), and (iv); revising paragraphs 4.(b)(3)(i), (ii), and (iii); 
revising paragraphs 4.(b)(4)(i), (ii), and (iii), 4.(b)(5)(i), (ii), 
and (iii); revising paragraphs 4.(b)(7)(i), (ii), and (iii); re-
designating paragraphs 4.(d)(4)(vi) through (ix) as 4.(d)(4)(vii) 
through (x); adding a new paragraph 4.(d)(4)(vi); and revising the 
introductory language of paragraphs 5.(a), (b), (c), (d), and (e) to 
read as follows:

Appendix D to Part 141--Commercial Pilot Certification Course

* * * * *
    4. * * *
    (b) * * *
    (1) * * *
    (i) 10 hours of instrument training using a view limiting device 
including attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems. 5 of the 10 hours of instrument training must 
be in a single-engine airplane;
    (ii) 10 hours of training in an airplane that has a retractable 
landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, or is 
turbine-powered;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in day-time conditions in 
a single-engine airplane that consists of a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight in night-time conditions in 
a single-engine airplane that consists of a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
* * * * *
    (2) * * *
    (i) 10 hours of instrument training using a view limiting device 
including attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems. 5 of the 10 hours of instrument training must 
be in a multiengine airplane;
* * * * *
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in day-time conditions in 
a multiengine airplane that consists of a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight in night-time conditions in 
a multiengine airplane that consists of a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
* * * * *
    (3) * * *
    (i) 5 hours on the control and maneuvering of a helicopter 
solely by reference to instruments, including using a view limiting 
device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, 
recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and 
tracking navigational systems. This aeronautical experience may be 
performed in an aircraft, flight simulator, flight training device, 
or a personal computer aviation training device;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in day-time conditions in a 
helicopter that consists of a total straight-line distance of more 
than 50 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in night-time conditions 
in a helicopter that consists of a total straight-line distance of 
more than 50 nautical miles from the original point of departure; 
and
* * * * *
    (4) * * *
    (i) 2.5 hours on the control and maneuvering of a gyroplane 
solely by reference to instruments, including using a view limiting 
device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, 
recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and 
tracking navigational systems. This aeronautical experience may be 
performed in an aircraft, flight simulator, flight training device, 
or a personal computer aviation training device;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in day-time conditions in a 
gyroplane that consists of a total straight-line distance of more 
than 50 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) 2 hours of flight training in night-time conditions in a 
gyroplane at an airport, that includes 10 takeoffs and 10 landings 
to a full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic 
pattern); and
* * * * *
    (5) * * *
    (i) 10 hours of instrument training using a view limiting device 
including attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery 
from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking 
navigational systems. Five of the 10 hours of instrument training 
must be in a powered-lift;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in day-time conditions in a 
powered-lift that consists of a total straight-line distance of more 
than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight in night-time conditions 
in a powered-lift that consists of a total straight-line distance of 
more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure; 
and
* * * * *
    (7) * * *
    (i) 3 hours of instrument training in an airship, including 
using a view limiting device for attitude instrument flying, partial 
panel skills, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and 
intercepting and tracking navigational systems;
    (ii) One 1-hour cross-country flight in day-time conditions in 
an airship that consists of a total straight-line distance of more 
than 25 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 1-hour cross-country flight in night-time conditions 
in an airship that consists of a total straight-line distance of 
more than 25 nautical miles from the original point of departure; 
and
* * * * *
    (d) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (vi) Ground reference maneuvers;
    5. * * *
    (a) For an airplane single-engine course. 10 hours of solo 
flight time in a single-engine airplane, or 10 hours of flight time 
while performing the duties of pilot in command in a single-engine 
airplane with an authorized instructor on board. The training must 
consist of the approved areas of operation under paragraph (d)(1) of 
section No. 4 of this appendix, and include--
* * * * *
    (b) For an airplane multiengine course. 10 hours of solo flight 
time in a multiengine airplane, or 10 hours of flight time while 
performing the duties of pilot in command in a multiengine airplane 
with an authorized instructor on board. The training must consist of 
the approved areas of operation under paragraph (d)(2) of section 
No. 4 of this appendix, and include--
* * * * *
    (c) For a rotorcraft helicopter course. 10 hours of solo flight 
time in a helicopter, or 10 hours of flight time while performing 
the duties of pilot in command in a helicopter with an authorized 
instructor on board. The training must consist of the approved areas 
of operation under paragraph (d)(3) of section No. 4 of this 
appendix, and include--
* * * * *
    (d) For a rotorcraft-gyroplane course. 10 hours of solo flight 
time in a gyroplane, or 10 hours of flight time while performing the 
duties of pilot in command in a gyroplane with an authorized 
instructor on board. The training must consist of the approved areas 
of operation under paragraph (d)(4) of section No. 4 of this 
appendix, and include--
* * * * *
    (e) For a powered-lift course. 10 hours of solo flight time in a 
powered-lift, or 10 hours of flight time while performing the duties 
of pilot in command in a powered-lift with an authorized instructor 
on board. The training must consist of the approved areas of 
operation under paragraph (d)(5) of section No. 4 of this appendix, 
and include--
* * * * *
    54. Amend Appendix E to part 141 by revising the introductory text 
of paragraph 2; removing paragraph 2.(a); re-designating existing 
paragraph 2.(b) as 2.(a) revising newly re-designated paragraph 2.(a); 
re-designating paragraph 2.(c) as (b); and re-designating paragraph 
2.(d) as (c) to read as follows:

Appendix E to Part 141--Airline Transport Pilot Certification Course

* * * * *
    2. Eligibility for enrollment. Before completing the flight 
portion of the airline transport pilot certification course, a 
person must meet the aeronautical experience requirements for an 
airline transport pilot certificate under part 61, subpart G of this 
chapter that is appropriate to the aircraft category and class 
rating for which the course applies, and:

[[Page 5850]]

    (a) Hold a commercial pilot certificate and an instrument 
rating, or an airline transport pilot certificate with instrument 
privileges;
* * * * *
    55. Amend Appendix I to part 141 by revising the appendix heading; 
and revising paragraphs 3 and 4 to read as follows:

Appendix I to Part 141--Additional Aircraft Category and/or Class 
Rating Course

* * * * *
    3. Aeronautical knowledge training. (a) For a recreational pilot 
certificate, the following aeronautical knowledge areas must be 
included in a 10-hour ground training course for an additional 
aircraft category and/or class rating:
    (1) Applicable Federal Aviation Regulations for recreational 
pilot privileges, limitations, and flight operations;
    (2) Safe and efficient operation of aircraft, including 
collision avoidance, and recognition and avoidance of wake 
turbulence;
    (3) Effects of density altitude on takeoff and climb 
performance;
    (4) Weight and balance computations;
    (5) Principles of aerodynamics, powerplants, and aircraft 
systems;
    (6) Stall awareness, spin entry, spins, and spin recovery 
techniques if applying for an airplane single-engine rating; and
    (7) Preflight action that includes how to obtain information on 
runway lengths at airports of intended use, data on takeoff and 
landing distances, weather reports and forecasts, and fuel 
requirements.
    (b) For a private pilot certificate, the following aeronautical 
knowledge areas must be included in a 10-hour ground training course 
for an additional class rating or a 15-hour ground training course 
for an additional aircraft category and class rating:
    (1) Applicable Federal Aviation Regulations for private pilot 
privileges, limitations, and flight operations;
    (2) Safe and efficient operation of aircraft, including 
collision avoidance, and recognition and avoidance of wake 
turbulence;
    (3) Effects of density altitude on takeoff and climb 
performance;
    (4) Weight and balance computations;
    (5) Principles of aerodynamics, powerplants, and aircraft 
systems;
    (6) Stall awareness, spin entry, spins, and spin recovery 
techniques if applying for an airplane single-engine rating; and
    (7) Preflight action that includes how to obtain information on 
runway lengths at airports of intended use, data on takeoff and 
landing distances, weather reports and forecasts, and fuel 
requirements.
    (c) For a commercial pilot certificate, the following 
aeronautical knowledge areas must be included in a 15-hour ground 
training course for an additional class rating or a 20-hour ground 
training course for an additional aircraft category and class 
rating:
    (1) Federal Aviation Regulations that apply to commercial pilot 
privileges, limitations, and flight operations;
    (2) Basic aerodynamics and the principles of flight;
    (3) Safe and efficient operation of aircraft;
    (4) Weight and balance computations;
    (5) Use of performance charts;
    (6) Significance and effects of exceeding aircraft performance 
limitations;
    (7) Principles and functions of aircraft systems;
    (8) Maneuvers, procedures, and emergency operations appropriate 
to the aircraft;
    (9) Night-time and high-altitude operations; and
    (10) Procedures for flight and ground training for lighter-than-
air ratings.
    (d) For an airline transport pilot certificate, the following 
aeronautical knowledge areas must be included in a 25-hour ground 
training course for an additional aircraft category and/or class 
rating:
    (1) Applicable Federal Aviation Regulations that relate to 
airline transport pilot privileges, limitations, and flight 
operations;
    (2) Meteorology, including knowledge of and effects of fronts, 
frontal characteristics, cloud formations, icing, and upper-air 
data;
    (3) General system of weather and NOTAM collection, 
dissemination, interpretation, and use;
    (4) Interpretation and use of weather charts, maps, forecasts, 
sequence reports, abbreviations, and symbols;
    (5) National Weather Service functions as they pertain to 
operations in the National Airspace System;
    (6) Windshear and microburst awareness, identification, and 
avoidance;
    (7) Principles of air navigation under instrument meteorological 
conditions in the National Airspace System;
    (8) Air traffic control procedures and pilot responsibilities as 
they relate to en route operations, terminal area and radar 
operations, and instrument departure and approach procedures;
    (9) Aircraft loading; weight and balance; use of charts, graphs, 
tables, formulas, and computations; and the effects on aircraft 
performance;
    (10) Aerodynamics relating to an aircraft's flight 
characteristics and performance in normal and abnormal flight 
regimes;
    (11) Human factors;
    (12) Aeronautical decision making and judgment; and
    (13) Crew resource management to include crew communication and 
coordination.
    4. Flight training.
    (a) Course for an additional airplane category and single-engine 
class rating.
    (1) For the recreational pilot certificate, the course must 
include 15 hours of flight training on the areas of operations under 
part 141, appendix A, paragraph 4(c)(1) that include--
    (i) 2 hours of flight training to an airport and at an airport 
that is located more than 25 nautical miles from the airport where 
the applicant normally trains, with three takeoffs and three 
landings, except as provided under Sec.  61.100 of this chapter; and
    (ii) 3 hours of flight training in an aircraft with the airplane 
category and single-engine class within 2 calendar months before the 
date of the practical test.
    (2) For the private pilot certificate, the course must include 
20 hours of flight training on the areas of operations under part 
141, appendix B, paragraph 4(d)(1). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used to meet more than 4 hours of the 
training requirements, and the use of the flight training device is 
limited to 3 of the 4 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country training in a single-engine 
airplane, except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a single-engine 
airplane that includes one cross-country flight of more than 100 
nautical miles total distance, and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a 
full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic 
pattern) at an airport;
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane on 
the control and maneuvering of the airplane 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; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane 
within 2 calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course must 
include 55 hours of flight training on the areas of operations under 
part 141, appendix D, paragraph 4(d)(1). A flight simulator and 
flight training device cannot be used to meet more than 16.5 hours 
of the training requirements, and the use of the flight training 
device is limited to 11 of the 16.5 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 5 hours of instrument training in a single-engine airplane 
that includes training using a view limiting device on attitude 
instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems;
    (ii) 10 hours of training in an airplane that has retractable 
landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, or is 
turbine-powered;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a single-engine airplane, a total straight-line distance of more 
than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in a single-engine airplane, a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
    (v) 3 hours in a single-engine airplane within 2 calendar months 
before the date of the practical test.
    (4) For the airline transport pilot certificate, the course must 
include 25 hours flight training, including 15 hours of instrument 
training, in a single-engine airplane on the areas of operation 
under part 141, appendix E, paragraph 4.(c). A flight simulator and 
flight training device cannot be used to meet more than 12.5 hours 
of the training requirements; and the use of the flight training 
device is limited to 6.25 of the 12.5 hours.
    (b) Course for an additional airplane category and multiengine 
class rating.

[[Page 5851]]

    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 20 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix B, paragraph 4.(d)(2). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 4 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 3 of the 4 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country training in a multiengine airplane, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a multiengine 
airplane that includes one cross-country flight of more than 100 
nautical miles total distance, and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a 
full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic 
pattern) at an airport;
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a multiengine airplane on 
the control and maneuvering of a multiengine airplane 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; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a multiengine airplane in 
preparation for the practical test within 2 calendar months before 
the date of the test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 55 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix D, paragraph 4.(d)(2). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 16.5 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 11 of the 16.5 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 5 hours of instrument training in a multiengine airplane 
including training using a view limiting device for attitude 
instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems;
    (ii) 10 hours of training in a multiengine airplane that has 
retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, 
or is turbine-powered;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a multiengine airplane, and a total straight-line distance of 
more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in a multiengine airplane, and a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
    (v) 3 hours in a multiengine airplane within 2 calendar months 
before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the airline transport pilot certificate, the course 
requires 25 hours of flight training in a multiengine airplane on 
the areas of operation under part 141, appendix E, paragraph 4.(c) 
that includes 15 hours of instrument training. A flight simulator 
and flight training device cannot be used more than 12.5 hours to 
meet the training requirements, and use of the flight training 
device is limited to 6.25 of the 12.5 hours.
    (c) Course for an additional rotorcraft category and helicopter 
class rating.
    (1) For the recreational pilot certificate, the course requires 
15 hours of flight training on the areas of operations under part 
141, appendix A, paragraph 4.(c)(2) that includes--
    (i) 2 hours of flight training to and at an airport that is 
located more than 25 nautical miles from the airport where the 
applicant normally trains, with three takeoffs and three landings, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.100 of this chapter; and
    (ii) 3 hours of flight training in a rotorcraft category and a 
helicopter class aircraft within 2 calendar months before the date 
of the practical test.
    (2) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 20 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix B, paragraph 4.(d)(3). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 4 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 3 of the 4 hours. The course must include--
    (i) Except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter, 3 
hours of cross-country flight training in a helicopter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a helicopter that 
includes one cross-country flight of more than 50-nautical-miles 
total distance, and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop (with 
each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an 
airport; and
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a helicopter within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) The commercial pilot certificate level requires 30 hours 
flight training on the areas of operations under appendix D of part 
141, paragraph 4.(d)(3). A flight simulator and flight training 
device cannot be used more than 9 hours to meet the training 
requirements, and use of the flight training device is limited to 6 
of the 9 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 5 hours on the control and maneuvering of a helicopter 
solely by reference to instruments, and must include training using 
a view limiting device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel 
skills, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and 
tracking navigational systems. This aeronautical experience may be 
performed in an aircraft, flight simulator, flight training device, 
or a personal computer aviation training device;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a helicopter, a total straight-line distance of more than 50 
nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in a helicopter, a total straight-line distance of more 
than 50 nautical miles from the original point of departure; and
    (iv) 3 hours in a helicopter within 2 calendar months before the 
date of the practical test.
    (4) For the airline transport pilot certificate, the course 
requires 25 hours of flight training, including 15 hours of 
instrument training, in a helicopter on the areas of operation under 
part 141, appendix E, paragraph 4.(c). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 12.5 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 6.25 of the 12.5 hours.
    (d) Course for an additional rotorcraft category and a gyroplane 
class rating.
    (1) For the recreational pilot certificate, the course requires 
15 hours flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix A, paragraph 4.(c)(3) that includes--
    (i) 2 hours of flight training to and at an airport that is 
located more than 25 nautical miles from the airport where the 
applicant normally trains, with three takeoffs and three landings, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.100 of this chapter; and
    (ii) 3 hours of flight training in a gyroplane class within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (2) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 20 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix B, paragraph 4.(d)(4). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 4 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 3 of the 4 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country flight training in a gyroplane, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a gyroplane that 
includes one cross-country flight of more than 50-nautical miles 
total distance, and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop (with 
each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an 
airport; and
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a gyroplane within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 30 
hours flight training on the areas of operations of appendix D to 
part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(4). A flight simulator and flight training 
device cannot be used more than 6 hours to meet the training 
requirements, and use of the flight training device is limited to 6 
of the 9 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 2.5 hours on the control and maneuvering of a gyroplane 
solely by reference to instruments, and must include training using 
a view limiting device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel 
skills, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and 
tracking navigational systems. This aeronautical experience may be 
performed in an aircraft, flight simulator, flight training device, 
or a personal computer aviation training device.
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a gyroplane, a total straight-line distance of more than 50 
nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) 2 hours of flight training during night-time conditions in 
a gyroplane at an airport, that includes 10 takeoffs and 10 landings 
to a full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic 
pattern); and
    (iv) 3 hours in a gyroplane within 2 calendar months before the 
date of the practical test.
    (e) Course for an additional lighter-than-air category and 
airship class rating.

[[Page 5852]]

    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 20 
hours of flight training on the areas of operation under part 141, 
appendix B, paragraph 4.(d)(7). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 4 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 3 of the 4 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country flight training in an airship, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in an airship that 
includes one cross-country flight of more than 25-nautical miles 
total distance and five takeoffs and five landings to a full stop 
(with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an 
airport;
    (iii) 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; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in an airship within 2 calendar 
months before the date of the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 55 
hours of flight training on the areas of operation under part 141, 
appendix D, paragraph 4.(d)(7). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 16.5 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 11 of the 16.5 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of instrument training in an airship that must 
include training using a view limiting device for attitude 
instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems;
    (ii) One 1-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in an airship that consists of a total straight-line distance of 
more than 25 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 1-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in an airship that consists of a total straight-line 
distance of more than 25 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in an airship within 2 calendar 
months before the date of the practical test.
    (f) Course for an additional lighter-than-air category and a gas 
balloon class rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires eight 
hours of flight training that includes five training flights on the 
areas of operations under part 141, appendix B, paragraph 4(d)(8). A 
flight simulator and flight training device cannot be used more than 
1.6 hours to meet the training requirements, and use of the flight 
training device is limited to 1.2 of the 1.6 hours. The course must 
include--
    (i) Two flights of 1 hour each;
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 3,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 10 
hours of flight training that includes eight training flights on the 
areas of operations under part 141, appendix D, paragraph 4(d)(8). A 
flight simulator and flight training device cannot be used more than 
3 hours to meet the training requirements, and use of the flight 
training device is limited to 2 of the 3 hours. The course must 
include--
    (i) Two flights of 1 hour each;
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 5,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
    (g) Course for an additional lighter-than-air category and a hot 
air balloon class rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires eight 
hours of flight training that includes five training flights on the 
areas of operations under part 141, appendix B, paragraph 4(d)(8). A 
flight simulator and flight training device cannot be used more than 
1.6 hours to meet the training requirements, and use of the flight 
training device is limited to 1.2 of the 1.6 hours. The course must 
include--
    (i) Two flights of 30 minutes each;
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 2,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 10 
hours of flight training that includes eight training flights on the 
areas of operation under part 141, appendix D, paragraph 4(d)(8). A 
flight simulator and flight training device cannot be used more than 
3 hours to meet the training requirements, and use of the flight 
training device is limited to 2 of the 3 hours. The course must 
include--
    (i) Two flights of 30 minutes each;
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 3,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
    (h) Course for an additional powered-lift category rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 20 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix B, paragraph 4(d)(5). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 4 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 3 of the 4 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country flight training in a powered-lift 
except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a powered-lift 
that includes one cross-country flight of more than 100-nautical-
miles total distance, and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop 
(with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an 
airport;
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a powered-lift on the 
control and maneuvering of a powered-lift 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;
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a powered-lift within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 55 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix D, paragraph 4(d)(5). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 16.5 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 11 of the 16.5 hours. The course includes--
    (i) 5 hours of instrument training in a powered-lift that must 
include training using a view limiting device for attitude 
instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a powered-lift, a total straight-line distance of more than 100 
nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in a powered-lift, a total straight-line distance of more 
than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a powered-lift within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the airline transport pilot certificate, the course 
requires 25 hours flight training in a powered-lift on the areas of 
operation under part 141, appendix E, paragraph 4(c) that includes 
15 hours of instrument training. A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 12.5 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 6.25 of the 12.5 hours.
    (i) Course for an additional glider category rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 4 
hours of flight training in a glider on the areas of operations 
under part 141, appendix B, paragraph 4(d)(6). A flight simulator 
and flight training device cannot be used more than 0.8 hours to 
meet the training requirements, and use of the flight training 
device is limited to 0.6 of the 0.8 hours. The course must include--
    (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 under appendix 
B, paragraph 4(d)(6) of this part; and
    (ii) Three training flights in a glider with a certificated 
flight instructor within 2 calendar months before the date of the 
practical test.
    (2) The commercial pilot certificate level requires 4 hours of 
flight training in a glider on the areas of operation under part 
141, appendix D, paragraph 4(d)(6). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 0.8 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 0.6 of the 0.8 hours. The course must include--
    (j) Course for an airplane additional single-engine class 
rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 3 
hours of flight training. in the areas of operations under part 141,

[[Page 5853]]

appendix B, paragraph 4(d)(1). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 0.6 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 0.4 of the 0.6 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country training in a single-engine 
airplane, except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a single-engine 
airplane that includes one cross-country flight of more than 100 
nautical miles total distance in a single-engine airplane and 10 
takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop (with each landing involving 
a flight in the traffic pattern) at an airport;
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane on 
the control and maneuvering of a single-engine airplane 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; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane 
within 2 calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 10 
hours of flight training on the areas of operations under part 141, 
appendix D, paragraph 4.(d)(1).
    (i) 5 hours of instrument training in a single-engine airplane 
that must include training using a view limiting device for attitude 
instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems.
    (ii) 10 hours of flight training in an airplane that has 
retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, 
or is turbine-powered.
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a single-engine airplane and a total straight-line distance of 
more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in a single-engine airplane and a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
    (v) 3 hours of flight training in a single-engine airplane 
within 2 calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the airline transport pilot certificate, the course 
requires 25 hours flight training in a single-engine airplane on the 
areas of operation under appendix E to part 141, paragraph 4.(c), 
that includes 15 hours of instrument training. A flight simulator 
and flight training device cannot be used more than 12.5 hours to 
meet the training requirements, and use of the flight training 
device is limited to 6.25 of the 12.5 hours.
    (k) Course for an airplane additional multiengine class rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 3 
hours of flight training on the areas of operations of appendix B to 
part 141, paragraph 4(d)(2). A flight simulator and flight training 
device cannot be used more than 0.6 hours to meet the training 
requirements, and use of the flight training device is limited to 
0.4 of the 0.6 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country training in a multiengine airplane, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a multiengine 
airplane that includes one cross-country flight of more than 100 
nautical miles total distance in a multiengine airplane, and 10 
takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop (with each landing involving 
a flight in the traffic pattern) at an airport;
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a multiengine airplane on 
the control and maneuvering of a multiengine airplane 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; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a multiengine airplane within 
2 calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 10 
hours of training on the areas of operations under appendix D of 
part 141, paragraph 4(d)(2). A flight simulator and flight training 
device cannot be used more than 3 hours to meet the training 
requirements, and use of the flight training device is limited to 2 
of the 3 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 5 hours of instrument training in a multiengine airplane 
that must include training using a view limiting device on for 
attitude instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from 
unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems;
    (ii) 10 hours of training in a multiengine airplane that has 
retractable landing gear, flaps, and a controllable pitch propeller, 
or is turbine-powered;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a multiengine airplane and, a total straight-line distance of 
more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iv) One 2-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in a multiengine airplane and, a total straight-line 
distance of more than 100 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a multiengine airplane within 
2 calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the airline transport pilot certificate, the course 
requires 25 hours of training in a multiengine airplane on the areas 
of operation of appendix E to part 141, paragraph 4.(c) that 
includes 15 hours of instrument training. A flight simulator and 
flight training device cannot be used more than 12.5 hours to meet 
the training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 6.25 of the 12.5 hours.
    (l) Course for a rotorcraft additional helicopter class rating.
    (1) For the recreational pilot certificate, the course requires 
3 hours of flight training on the areas of operations under appendix 
A of part 141, paragraph 4.(c)(2) that includes--
    (i) 2 hours of flight training to and at an airport that is 
located more than 25 nautical miles from the airport where the 
applicant normally trains, with three takeoffs and three landings, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.100 of this chapter; and
    (ii) 3 hours of flight training in a helicopter within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (2) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 3 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under appendix B of 
part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(3). A flight simulator and flight training 
device cannot be used more than 0.6 hours to meet the training 
requirements, and use of the flight training device is limited to 
0.4 of the 0.6 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country training in a helicopter, except as 
provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a helicopter that 
includes one cross-country flight of more than 50-nautical-miles 
total distance, and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop (with 
each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an 
airport; and
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a helicopter within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 5 
hours flight training on the areas of operations under appendix D of 
part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(3). Use of a flight simulator and flight 
training device in the approved training course cannot exceed 1 
hour; however, use of the flight training device cannot exceed 0.7 
of the one hour. The course must include--
    (i) 5 hours on the control and maneuvering of a helicopter 
solely by reference to instruments, and must include training using 
a view limiting device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel 
skills, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and 
tracking navigational systems. This aeronautical experience may be 
performed in an aircraft, flight simulator, flight training device, 
or a personal computer aviation training device;
    (ii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in a helicopter and, a total straight-line distance of more than 50 
nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 2-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in a helicopter and a total straight-line distance of 
more than 50 nautical miles from the original point of departure; 
and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a helicopter within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (4) For the airline transport pilot certificate, the course 
requires 25 hours of flight training in a helicopter on the areas of 
operation under appendix E of part 141, paragraph 4.(c) that 
includes 15 hours of instrument training. A flight simulator and 
flight training device cannot be used more than 12.5 hours to meet 
the training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 6.25 of the 12.5 hours.
    (m) Course for a rotorcraft additional gyroplane class rating.
    (1) For the recreational pilot certificate, the course requires 
3 hours flight training on the areas of operations of appendix A to 
part 141, paragraph 4.(c)(3) that includes--

[[Page 5854]]

    (i) Except as provided under Sec.  61.100 of this chapter, 2 
hours of flight training to and at an airport that is located more 
than 25 nautical miles from the airport where the applicant normally 
trains, with three takeoffs and three landings; and
    (ii) Within 2 calendar months before the date of the practical 
test, 3 hours of flight training in a gyroplane.
    (2) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 3 
hours flight training on the areas of operations of appendix B to 
part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(4). A flight simulator and flight training 
device cannot be used more than 0.6 hours to meet the training 
requirements, and use of the flight training device is limited to 
0.4 of the 0.6 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country training in a gyroplane;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in a gyroplane that 
includes one cross-country flight of more than 50-nautical-miles 
total distance, and 10 takeoffs and 10 landings to a full stop (with 
each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an 
airport; and
    (iii) 3 hours of flight training in a gyroplane within 2 
calendar months before the date of the practical test.
    (3) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 5 
hours flight training on the areas of operations of appendix D to 
part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(4). A flight simulator and flight training 
device cannot be used more than 1 hour to meet the training 
requirements, and use of the flight training device is limited to 
0.7 of the 1 hour. The course must include--
    (i) 2.5 hours on the control and maneuvering of a gyroplane 
solely by reference to instruments, and must include training using 
a view limiting device for attitude instrument flying, partial panel 
skills, recovery from unusual flight attitudes, and intercepting and 
tracking navigational systems. This aeronautical experience may be 
performed in an aircraft, flight simulator, flight training device, 
or a personal computer aviation training device.
    (ii) 3 hours of cross-country flight training in a gyroplane, 
except as provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (iii) 2 hours of flight training during night-time conditions in 
a gyroplane at an airport that includes 10 takeoffs and 10 landings 
to a full stop (with each landing involving a flight in the traffic 
pattern); and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in a gyroplane within 2 calendar 
months before the date of the practical test.
    (n) Course for a lighter-than-air additional airship class 
rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 20 
hours of flight training on the areas of operation under appendix B 
of part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(7). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 4 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 3 of the 4 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of cross-country training in an airship, except as 
provided under Sec.  61.111 of this chapter;
    (ii) 3 hours of night-time flight training in an airship that 
includes one cross-country flight of more than 25-nautical-miles 
total distance, and five takeoffs and five landings to a full stop 
(with each landing involving a flight in the traffic pattern) at an 
airport;
    (iii) 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; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in an airship within 2 calendar 
months before the date of the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 55 
hours of flight training on the areas of operation under appendix D 
of part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(7). A flight simulator and flight 
training device cannot be used more than 16.5 hours to meet the 
training requirements, and use of the flight training device is 
limited to 11 of the 16.5 hours. The course must include--
    (i) 3 hours of instrument training in an airship that must 
include training using a view limiting device for attitude 
instrument flying, partial panel skills, recovery from unusual 
flight attitudes, and intercepting and tracking navigational 
systems;
    (ii) One 1-hour cross-country flight during day-time conditions 
in an airship that consists of a total straight-line distance of 
more than 25 nautical miles from the original point of departure;
    (iii) One 1-hour cross-country flight during night-time 
conditions in an airship that consists of a total straight-line 
distance of more than 25 nautical miles from the original point of 
departure; and
    (iv) 3 hours of flight training in an airship within 2 calendar 
months before the date of the practical test.
    (o) Course for a lighter-than-air additional gas balloon class 
rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires eight 
hours of flight training that includes five training flights on the 
areas of operations under appendix B of part 141, paragraph 
4.(d)(8). A flight simulator and flight training device cannot be 
used more than 1.6 hours to meet the training requirements, and use 
of the flight training device is limited to 1.2 of the 1.6 hours. 
The course must include--
    (i) Two flights of 1 hour each;
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 3,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 10 
hours of flight training that includes eight training flights on the 
areas of operations of appendix D to part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(8). A 
flight simulator and flight training device cannot be used more than 
3 hours to meet the training requirements, and use of the flight 
training device is limited to 2 of the 3 hours. The course must 
include--
    (i) Two flights of 1 hour each;
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 5,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
    (p) Course for a lighter-than-air additional hot air balloon 
class rating.
    (1) For the private pilot certificate, the course requires 8 
hours of flight training that includes five training flights on the 
areas of operations of appendix B to part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(8). A 
flight simulator and flight training device cannot be used more than 
1.6 hours to meet the training requirements, and use of the flight 
training device is limited to 1.2 of the 1.6 hours. The course must 
include--
    (i) Two flights of 30 minutes each;
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 2,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
    (2) For the commercial pilot certificate, the course requires 10 
hours of flight training that includes eight training flight on the 
areas of operation of appendix D to part 141, paragraph 4.(d)(8). A 
flight simulator and flight training device cannot be used more than 
3 hours to meet the training requirements, and use of the flight 
training device is limited to 2 of the 3 hours. The course must 
include--
    (i) Two flights of 30 minutes each.
    (ii) One flight involving a controlled ascent to 3,000 feet 
above the launch site; and
    (iii) Two flights within 2 calendar months before the date of 
the practical test.
* * * * *

    Issued in Washington, DC on December 27, 2006.
James Ballough,
Director, Flight Standards Service.

 [FR Doc. E7-1467 Filed 2-6-07; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P