Instrument Currency
Instrument currency is the recent-experience side of acting as pilot in command under IFR or in weather below VFR minimums. It should be distinguished from broader instrument proficiency.
A regulatory concept
FAA recent-experience rules for instrument operations are contained in §61.57, with guidance in AC 61-98E. Exact requirements and permitted methods should be checked against the current rule.
Different approved pathways
Depending on circumstances and current rules, relevant experience may involve aircraft, approved simulation devices, combinations of methods or an instrument proficiency check. Do not assume any simulator session or approach automatically satisfies a requirement.
Proficiency is broader
Practical instrument proficiency can involve scan, approaches, missed approaches, holding, navigation, communications, workload management and aircraft systems. Currency and practical sharpness are related but different questions.
Practice Targets are personal reminders. They do not establish regulatory currency, proficiency, legal eligibility to fly, or compliance with a specific operating requirement.
Authoritative references
- FAA AC 61-98E — Currency Requirements and Guidance for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check
- FAA AC 61-91K — WINGS—Pilot Proficiency Program
- Electronic Code of Federal Regulations — 14 CFR Part 61
Plan practice around real IFR tasks
Consider the procedures, avionics, weather and workload typical of your instrument flying. Holding, approaches, missed approaches, navigation and automation can have different recency.
Related resources
This page is a general reference. Verify current regulations, aircraft documentation and operating requirements applicable to your flight.