Dear all,
I do not enjoy the "piggyback" name so much, so I'll use "restricted PPL" or "Foreign-based PPL" instead if you do not mind. :-)
As already said above, the holder of a foreign-based US PPL can use the privileges of that restricted PPL if he holds :
- a valid foreign license (on which is based the US one)
- a valid medical
- a Flight Review within the last 24 calendar months, (endorsed in his logbook)
If you want to fly an N-Reg airplane, you need :
- an FAA pilot certificate (standalone or foreign-based)
OR
- you can fly an N-Reg airplane if you hold the license issued by the country which is below your wings, or any license accepted by that country, IF THE LOCAL AUTHORITIES DO ACCEPT THAT RULE.
Which means in France, you can fly an N-Reg airplane with your French-issued PPL. (Europe is not considered as a country, so you are limited to the country that issued your PPL)
But some countries may refuse that (for example, it seems like Belgium has imposed US Certificates to fly N-Reg airplanes in Belgium).
And caution : even if you are Instrument Rated in Europe, YOU CAN ONLY FLY VFR WITH YOUR N-REG AIRPLANE, unless you passed the IFP knowledge test and had your foreign IR added on your restricted FAA PPL.
This may seem curious, but that makes sense.
There are some rules that apply to you when you fly an N-Reg airplane under IFR rules (example : VOR checks every 30 days, etc.). You cannot know these rules and the specific US regulation if you only passed a JAA IR.
Moreover, do not forget that when you fly an N-Reg airplane, you fly "under the FAA responsibility". For example, in case of accident, you have to notice the FAA and if needed make a written report... which many owners tend to forget in Europe.
Happy landings,
Alexandra
ORBIFLY
www.orbifly.com
FAA training in Europe