The virtues of training

Furthermore, training instills within an aviator a feeling of justified confidence, and that feeling makes flying more enjoyable.

Some GA pilots contemplate training only in the context of currency, which is unfortunate. Such a narrow approach limits the advantages of systematically re-enforcing a foundation of knowledge, skill, and decision-making—core elements of a robust and effective culture of safety. Currency, which protects pilots from violations, must not be conflated with proficiency. Proficiency protects pilots from harm and mishaps.

Currency requirements for most GA pilots are woefully inadequate for demonstrating proficiency. Unless engaged in commercial activities such as charter or airline flying, pilots are deemed current to fly as pilot in command provided they log a flight review per FAR 61.56 every 24 calendar months. There are no exceptions—you are grounded without a valid Flight Review. With a private or higher certification and a flight review, pilots can carry passengers if their logbook documents three takeoffs and landings to a full stop within the past 90 days for their conditions of the flight (i.e., day or night). Flying solely by reference to instruments requires an instrument-rated pilot to have performed six instrument approaches, holding procedures, and course interception as well as tracking within the previous six calendar months. Currency is silent, however, with respect to the pilot’s specific attributes or the flight conditions likely to be encountered.

Compare GA’s meager currency demands with the requirements for professional aviators. Charter and airline captains must display their knowledge and skill every six months; many corporate flight departments also follow a six-month cycle for recurrent training. Pilots of corporate jets require yearly reviews to maintain currency. When operators who fly far more frequently than the average GA pilot are required to demonstrate their proficiency every six to 12 months, why should we accept a less stringent review period for the rest of us?

Conflating currency with proficiency is delusional and dangerous. Proficiency means being prepared for all the circumstances a pilot is likely to encounter; being current only means you are legally allowed to fly.

Furthermore, logging the minimum flight activity to be legal adds little to a pilot’s self-confidence, which is an essential quality for aviators. A feeling of inadequacy is unpleasant, leads to unnecessary cancelation of flights, and limits the advantages of being a pilot. Nor is overconfidence or bravado appropriate. To get the most from flying—to really enjoy the experience—general aviation pilots need to be and feel prepared.

Proficiency begets pleasure: Proficiency does more than keep pilots and their passengers safe. Proficiency also produces more enjoyable flights. Pilots rarely seek white-knuckle trips, and passengers are easily discouraged from flying with pilots who appear overly challenged. Harrowing flights discourage continued involvement with general aviation—feeling unqualified or overwhelmed can be the powerful rational for underutilization or quitting.

Currency, which protects pilots from violations, must not be conflated with proficiency. Proficiency protects pilots from harm and mishaps.Trips that progress stress-free from takeoff through landing are fun; they are the source of pleasure and immense satisfaction. However, stress-free flights do not happen just because the pilot is current. Satisfying flights are the product of a pilot’s proficiency in acquiring knowledge, applying skills, and making good decisions. Proficiency requires a greater commitment than simply meeting the FAA’s requirement for being current. Systematic training is a necessity.

The FAA establishes boundaries but does not assure outcomes. Pilots determine how they will operate within those boundaries. We shape our own outcomes. GA pilots should devise their own plans to advance proficiency consistent with but not constrained by FAA mandates. Every trip aloft is an opportunity to improve provided we plan thoroughly and leave nothing to chance. We can have—we must have—our own, realistic six-month “proficiency audits,” including an assessment of the limits we will use personally.

The benefits of accessing one’s capabilities every six months are several. Aside from being well prepared for the required flight review and other mandates when they come due, the focus is on continuous self-improvement rather than checking off boxes on a currency checklist. Systematic assessment and honing of knowledge and skill minimizes apprehension and maximizes confidence.

Proficient pilots prepare for all outcomes, and by doing so achieve two benefits—greater safety and more enjoyment.

John W. Olcott is an airline transport pilot, CFII, and remote pilot, as well as former president of the National Business Aviation Association.