Regulations by Training Phase

Leanna Osisek • Jul 12, 2023

Mastering the pertinent regulations throughout every phase of training is critical. In a perfect world, we would have an infinity of time to advance to the point of reading the FAR/AIM cover to cover, and then concentrate more intensely on the most significant and relevant parts. However, such is unrealistic and we are unfortunately tasked with the challenge of prioritizing most deeply learning the sections and regulations that are essential to our current area of focus. Easy, right? Luckily with proper guidance, it can be. This post aims to highlight the Federal Aviation Regulations, or FARs, that are commonly overlooked, confused, or misunderstood, so that the time you spend reading them is as worthwhile as possible. Continue on to see some FARs we think are especially important to each phase of your training.

Private Pilot Certificate

§61.23 - Medical certificates

§61.3 - Requirement for certificates, ratings, and authorizations

§61.57 - Recent flight experience: PIC

§61.103 - Eligibility requirements

§61.113 - Private pilot privileges & limitations

§91.7 - Civil aircraft airworthiness

§91.103 - Preflight action

§91.113 - Right-of-way rules

§91.125 - ATC light signals

§91.151 - VFR Fuel requirements

§91.155 - VFR Weather minimums

§91.211 - Supplemental oxygen


Instrument Rating

§61.65 - Instrument rating requirements

§91.167 - Fuel requirements for flight in IFR conditions

§91.175 - Takeoff and landing under IFR

§91.185 - IFR operations: Two-way radio communications failure


Commercial Pilot Certificate

§61.133 - Commercial pilot privileges and limitations

§61.129 - Aeronautical experience


Honorable Mention

§91.203 - Civil aircraft: certifications required

§91.213 - Inoperative instruments and equipment

Appendix A to Part 43 - Major Alterations, Major Repairs, and Preventive Maintenance

These are just a handful of Federal Aviation Regulations that we encourage you to spend a little additional time on. Some study tips we suggest include reading at least one regulation a day (maybe we should start a #RegOfTheDay!?), and making flashcards for the ones you find the most challenging. Creating a tab system for your FAR/AIM can be immensely helpful, physically or electronically, for quick referencing, and make sure you have the current year's copy. Finally, ask your instructor for any clarification if you don't understand what a regulation is addressing, or any other details. We know this reading is dry compared to other, more stimulating, aviation material, but it is of paramount importance to practice being a law-abiding airman, and knowledge is power in doing so. What topic(s) would you like to read more on? Let us know!

29 Sep, 2023
NEW AT NSPIRE
By Marcus Lansky 29 Sep, 2023
Maybe you’ve been thinking about making a dramatic career change. If you’ve always dreamed about becoming a pilot, this could be your opportunity to make that dream a reality. By taking a certification course with NSPIRE Aviation , you can kick off a new career as a commercial pilot! Furthermore, these tips will show you how to enhance your resume to secure your first job, and even walk you through some of the requirements for starting your own aviation business. Figure Out if It’s Time for a Change When do you know that it’s time for a career change? Sometimes, looking for a new job in the same field is enough - but sometimes, you need to completely shift directions. Robert Walters Group states that if your skills do not align with your true professional interests, it may be a sign to work on breaking into a new field, where you can pour your talents into a job that you love. Get Certified as a Commercial Pilot You’re committed to making a career change, and you’re ready to take the first big step towards becoming a commercial pilot by earning your pilot’s license. You’ll need to complete a private pilot certification first, earn an instrument rating, get your necessary flight hours under your belt, and then pass a written and practical exam covering everything you’ve learned. Finally, you’ll be ready to get your commercial pilot’s license! Update Your Resume If you’re getting ready to look for your first job as a commercial pilot, you might be wondering how to create a resume . Changing up your resume when switching fields can take time, so start this process early! AVJobs states that you can include your flight times, certifications, and ratings, as well as your previous jobs. Finally, even after you’ve created a strong resume, don’t forget that you can tweak it for each job opening. For example, you might want to add different keywords to the skills section based on the job description. You can also emphasize specific accomplishments in your professional history and academic sections. Navigate the Job Hunt You’ve got your license, your resume is ready, and you’re eager to start working as a pilot. You may need to get a flight instructor certification first, as it’s much easier to find employment as a flight instructor when you have minimal experience. Research different employers in your area, and try to network with people who already work there - they might be able to give you a valuable reference that could land you an interview! Even in the aviation field, networking is often the key to getting the job you want. Consider Starting Your Own Business One day, you might want to start your own business in the commercial aviation sector. For instance, if you live in an area that attracts tourists, you might want to offer private flights to show off the aerial views of your region. If you intend to start a business, you’ll have to obtain a business license first, as well as any appropriate permits. To find out which licenses and permits you’ll need, check out the requirements in your state. By hiring a service to assemble the list of required permits and licenses for your aviation business, you’ll save hours of time! Working in commercial aviation is an exciting career choice. If you’ve been itching for a career change, it might be time to take to the skies. With these tips, you’ll be ready to pursue a certification program, spruce up your resume for job applications, and even launch your very own aviation business in the future. Ready to earn your commercial pilot certification? Turn to NSPIRE Aviation ! Fill out the contact form on their website to learn more about the certification programs. Ready to earn your commercial pilot certification? Photo via Unsplash
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