Getting back into it after a long break -what do I need?
 

Hi PPRuNers,

I'm a low-time PPL (approx 500 hrs) with CSU, retract, pressurization, night VFR and formation endorsements, who stopped flying about 25 years ago. I had a bad year where I lost 9 friends in separate aircraft accidents, at about the same time my first child was born. I decided I wanted to spend more time with my new family as they were growing up so pulled the plug.
My two boys are adults now, and I'd like to return to the skies.

Obviously I need to get my medical and do check-flights, but does anyone else know what else I'll need to do to get my currency back?

Someone said that I'll need to do all of my PPL theory subjects again.
Others told me that all I need is a thorough briefing on things like airspace, because I've passed all my theory -I should be treated like a pilot coming from another country.

I have no idea which is true or if it's some combination. I've contacted 3 schools in the Sydney basin by email, but have yet to hear from any of them (nothing for a week, so I guess business must be good...)

Not looking to get my CPL or anything speccy. Just want my PPL back for pleasure flying. Any advice appreciated.

I can't speak for other schools but check out the Central Coast Aero Club at Warnervale. Andrew Smith is the General Manager. Great crew, good aircraft, and highly experienced and professional instructors leading the team.

Your private pilot licence is 'perpetual'. As I understand it you won't need to do any subjects or exams again but you will need to do a flight review and have a current medical. It might take some time to get you up to standard for the review though...!

If an Australian licence I believe they remain valid for life but require you to have a current medical and flight review/proficiency check within the last 2 years. You will also need to apply for an AVID (aviation ID).

If an Oz licence, do you recall your ARN? If so, you can contact CASA and they will be able to tell you what records they have of your licences. try: [email protected] (or go to web page https://www.casa.gov.au/licences-and...sked-questions)

You will need to be issued with a new Part 61 paper licence at some point - you can apply yourself or can do it as part of the flight review/proficiency check paperwork. It is a little fiddly if you have lots of log book endorsements for things - they will all need to be certified and copies sent to CASA to get them entered onto the system with them - probably best to sit down with someone at a school or club who can talk you through it and then you can go away and get the ball rolling with medical and AVID application prior to doing some remedial training and then a review/proficiency check.

As far as amount of dual prior to the check?... really depends - you may pick the hand skills and procedures back up really quickly or it may take a little while. I would guess somewhere between 5-10 hours dual? Depends also on aeroplanes you flew etc. A good instructor should be able to work out a plan to get you back to speed and give a rough indication of time after doing a bit of flying with you to see where you are at.

I can recommend someone to talk to about the process if you want to - PM me.

Adding to jonkster's advice: AOPA has info for rusty pilots at https://aopa.com.au/rusty-pilots/

I've helped some rusty pilots get up to speed again but I'm in the Melbourne area however happy to chat offline.

What Jonsker said. You need a current medical and a flight review. I am currently doing a flight review and refresher training for a pilot who has not flown for the same length of time. It is surprising how well he is remembering. You can start the FR prior to getting the medical.

Edit: You should also download and fill out Form 61-9TX This will get you your new pilots licence ready for the flight review to be entered into!

A good flight school will do the part 61 paperwork for you when you do your BFR.