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Preparing for the FAA Practical Test (Check Ride)

Agenda

ResponsibilityResourcesPTSCFR 14 part 61FAA 8710-1Checkride TruismsCheckride PersonaSummary

Who is Responsible ?

Shared Responsibility between CFIG and Student– CFIG ensures training is

completed and loggedPilot in Command, § 91.3Preflight Preparation, § 91.103

CRM/ADM Resources?

FAA Practical Test Standard, FAA-S-8081 22 April 1999Your Friendly CFIGYour Friendly A&P CFR 14 Parts 61 & 91Your Personal Flying LibraryAfter Action ReportsInternet

Practical Test Standard (PTS)

FAA S-8081-22 April 1999

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PTS Continued

PTS Applicant Check List

Use the Check List

Sample PTS Task

PTS Special Emphasis Items

1999 Private Pilot PTS

2006 Commercial and CFI PTS

CFR 14 Part 61.103

To be eligible for a private pilot certificate, a person must:Be at least 16 years of agePass the required knowledge test Receive flight training in §61.107(b)(6) and receive a logbook endorsement Pass a practical test

CFR 14 Part 61.107§ 61.107 Flight proficiency.(a) General. A person who applies for a private pilot certificate must receive and log ground and flight training from an authorized instructor on the areas of operation of this section that apply to the aircraft category and class rating sought.

CFR 14 Part 61.107(b)(6)(i) Preflight preparation;(ii) Preflight procedures;(iii) Airport and gliderport operations;(iv) Launches and landings;(v) Performance speeds;(vi) Soaring techniques;(vii) Performance maneuvers;(viii) Navigation;(ix) Slow flight and stalls;(x) Emergency operations; and(xi) Postflight procedures.

PTS

Areas

of

Operation

CFR 14 Part 61.109

10 hours of flight time in a glider in the areas of operation listed in §61.107(b)(6) –20 flights in a glider–3 training flights in a glider within the

60-day period preceding the test–2 hours of solo flight time in a glider

with not less than 10 launches and landings

CFR 14 Part 61.109 Cont.

Applicant has logged at least 40 hours in a heavier-than-air aircraft:3 hours of flight time in a glider in the areas of operation listed in §61.107(b)(6) –10 solo flights in a glider–3 training flights in a glider within the

60-day period preceding the test.

FAA 8710-1

Get Current form from www.faa.gov – 07/31/2007 is Current versionFollow directions implicitly!

Checkride TruismsInstructors sign students off for a checkride when they demonstrate the proficiency to pass

The Checkride is all about answering the question, is this applicant ready to safely act as a Pilot in Command of a Glider ?– Demonstrate your “Command Ability” Never

allow yourself not to be in command or responsible

Checkride Truisms Continued

Examiners want you to pass and know the checkride is stressful, don’t panic if:– You can’t answer a question– You perform a maneuver out of standard

• Simply say, “may I look that one up” or “can I do that again”

• Bring your Glider Library to assist– The examiner starts to teach or demonstrate

• listen, watch, and learn

Checkride Truisms Continued

Oral exams are typically first, be well prepared and it lessens the stress of flyingShow up on Checkride day early with:– Current weather forecast, METAR, TAF, etc. – Weight and Balance calculated for your aircraft

with your and the examiner’s weights– Aircraft Logs highlighting required inspections

• Brief examiner on each area emphasizing your go no go decision

Checkride Truisms Continued

Know Emergency Procedures and your aircraft limitations. Show up dressed correctly for the Occasion– White shirts are great, they can’t see you

sweat– Look like a Glider pilot

All of PGC Students are “nervous” going into the Checkride and end up saying “was that all there is ?”

Checkride Truisms Continued

The Checkride is SERIOUS, you are going to receive the privilege to operate in the same airspace and in close proximity to Airliners, Military, and General Aviation aircraft– Your preparation should equal your

responsibility– However, always smile ☺ Flying is fun

NEVER lose the joy

Checkride Persona

Sincere Interest in learningHumilityOptimismSafety MindedConfident but not Cocky

-Is this person ready to be a safe PIC ?

Thoughts by Rod Machado AOPA ASF CFI Update Winter 2007

Summary

Once you have the sign off, you have demonstrated the ability to act as

Pilot in Command and proficiency to Pass the FAA Checkride!

Be confident, humble, and safety oriented. Take Command and go forth and Pass your Checkride!

YOU CAN DO IT !