IFR currency question

[ant1]

According to part part 61.57 (http://ecfr.gpoaccess.gov/cgi/t/text/text-idx?c=ecfr&sid=be9d3caef8a04ec712a1349cdcf81f83&rgn=div8&view=text&node=14:2.0.1.1.2.1.1.35&idno=14)

c) Instrument experience. Except as provided in paragraph (e) of this section, no person may act as pilot in command under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed for VFR, unless within the preceding 6 calendar months, that person has:

(1) For the purpose of obtaining instrument experience in an aircraft (other than a glider), performed and logged under actual or simulated instrument conditions, either in flight in the appropriate category of aircraft for the instrument privileges sought or in a flight simulator or flight training device that is representative of the aircraft category for the instrument privileges sought—

(i) At least six instrument approaches;

(ii) Holding procedures; and

(iii) Intercepting and tracking courses through the use of navigation systems.

(2) For the purpose of obtaining instrument experience in a glider, performed and logged under actual or simulated instrument conditions—

(i) At least 3 hours of instrument time in flight, of which 1 1/2 hours may be acquired in an airplane or a glider if no passengers are to be carried; or

(ii) 3 hours of instrument time in flight in a glider if a passenger is to be carried.

(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 prescribed time, or within 6 calendar months after the prescribed time, may not serve as pilot in command under IFR or in weather conditions less than the minimums prescribed for VFR until that person passes an instrument proficiency check consisting of a representative number of tasks required by the instrument rating practical test.

(1) The instrument proficiency check must be—

(i) In an aircraft that is appropriate to the aircraft category;

(ii) For other than a glider, in a flight simulator or flight training device that is representative of the aircraft category; or

(iii) For a glider, in a single-engine airplane or a glider.

(2) The instrument proficiency check must be given by—

(i) An examiner;

(ii) A person authorized by the U.S. Armed Forces to conduct instrument flight tests, provided the person being tested is a member of the U.S. Armed Forces;

(iii) A company check pilot who is authorized to conduct instrument flight tests under part 121, 125, or 135 of this chapter or subpart K of part 91 of this chapter, and provided that both the check pilot and the pilot being tested are employees of that operator or fractional ownership program manager, as applicable;

(iv) An authorized instructor; or

(v) A person approved by the Administrator to conduct instrument practical tests.

I've had the 12 month gap (years ago) in my IFR flying. According to 61.57 I'm in for a proficency check.

The thing is that since I got my JAA IR I have not experienced such 12 month gaps.

Am I then in for a proficency check or not ?

Thanks for answering

[Check 6]

My guess is that you need an IPC by one of the authorized individuals. I do not believe that a JAA Instrument Instructor would qualify.

Maybe someone else has some other conclusions.

Check 6
CFII

[westhawk]

I would agree that you will need to accomplish the IPC unless you have continually remained instrument current as defined by 61.57 (c)(1) since your last check by an FAA authorized individual. If you were ever more than 6 calender months out of IFR currency during that period, then I would say you need the IPC to regain currency under FARs. While time flying other than US registered aircraft may be logged and the experience credited toward any experience required to meet any FAR requirements, it appears that training and checks only count if given by FAA authorized individuals.

See the rating task table on page 16 the instrument PTS (http://www.faa.gov/education_research/testing/airmen/test_standards/media/FAA-S-8081-4D.pdf) (.pdf unfortunately.) to find the TASKS required to be completed in order to accomplish an IPC.

Best regards,

Westhawk

[ant1]

Thanks Check6 and westhawk :ok:

You are probably right I'm afraid, regs are the way they are. So IPC it is.

Although, I find it nonsense that some one that has been flying regularly in IFR lately has to undergo an IPC because "technically" there was a gap years ago in his IFR flying :(

[Check 6]

Ant1, your PM mailbox is full.

Where are you in Europe, the UK? I just moved back to Florida after living in Italy for 6+ years. I would have gladly given you an IPC.

Check 6

[westhawk]

Although, I find it nonsense that some one that has been flying regularly in IFR lately has to undergo an IPC because "technically" there was a gap years ago in his IFR flying


ant1:

As far as flying proficiency is concerned, I completely agree with you. Flying is flying, no matter the registry of the aircraft or pilot. However, one could make the case that this forces you to review US rules and procedures. In any case, an IPC should be just that. A review and an opportunity to brush up in any areas where it seems appropriate. Combine it with an aircraft rental checkout and a BFR along with a $200.00 hamburger run and it will at least be fun! Bring a friend or two along. As long as you mostly have your stuff together, it should not be very stressful. Pick a CFI who sees it this way.

Best,

Westhawk

[ant1]

I agree westhawk,

It will only :ouch: my bank account.

Can anybody confirm what is (to me) a clear statement in part 61.57

(1) The instrument proficiency check must be—
(i) In an aircraft that is appropriate to the aircraft category

Meaning that I don't need to rent a multiengine ?

Thanks

[Check 6]

Affirm, category means airplane regardless of the number of donks.

;)

[ant1]

Thanks Check 6 :ok:

[Dpilot]

Did you get your IPC? I live Ireland and will conduct an IPC free of charge, if thats any good to you. But you will have to Pay the cost of the aircraft rental.