JAA to FAA
I am a JAA Frozen ATPL Pilot (CPL/ME/IR all valid and current including JAA Madical) and would like to start flying my friend’s TBM 700 November Registered Aircraft in Europe and in IMC. I do not have any Type-Rating for this aircraft but all I need is a factory course for insurance purposes if I fly on an FAA license.
1.) I am not sure whether I will be flying this commercially or private yet but I don't think it makes a difference does it?
2.) Anyway, to legally do this, I have read that the FAA will issue a license on the basis of another foreign license as long as that license is valid (ie: current and with medical). What exactly is the process for conversion of the license?
3.) Is there any theoretical exam, skilltest, oral test?
4.) What paperwork do I need to sort out?
5.) Do I need a student visa to do this in the US? (I currently hold a tourist visa)
6.) Do I need to do an FAA medical?
7.) Can anybody recommend some schools for doing so? I have found a lot of schools offering FAA to JAA but not the otherway round.
8.) What will I need to do in the future to keep both my JAA and FAA licenses valid and current?
I have the below flying experience:
TOTAL FLIGHT TIME: 819.3 HRS (All Piston)
PILOT IN COMMAND TIME: 659.5 (OF WHICH 539.2 HRS ARE INSTRUCTION) (All Piston)
MULTI-ENGINE PISTON TIME: 37.9 HRS
SINGLE ENGINE PISTON TIME: 781.4 HRS
Thanks in Advance for the very patient person who will answer my questions.