Flight Review Preparation
Good flight review preparation is not about memorizing a generic maneuver script. It is about arriving with current knowledge, an honest picture of your recent flying, and clear training priorities.
Start with your recent flying
Review what you have actually flown recently: aircraft, environments, day or night, VFR or IFR, passengers, cross-country work and the maneuvers you have practiced.
Refresh knowledge before the session
Review current rules, airspace, weather, aircraft systems, limitations, performance and risk-management topics relevant to your flying. AC 61-98E can help frame the review.
Identify skill gaps
Use the Pilot Skills library or your own records to identify tasks you have not practiced recently. Bring those priorities to your instructor rather than hiding them.
Agree on a useful plan
Discuss goals, aircraft and operating context with the instructor. A review tailored to real needs can provide more value than treating the event as a minimum compliance exercise.
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
Prepare before the day
Resolve document or eligibility questions, review the aircraft and current operating information, and identify knowledge topics that need study before the session. That leaves more training time for useful discussion and flying.
Bring a short skill list
Choose skills that matter to your flying and that have not been practiced recently. Bring that list to the instructor so the session can reflect actual needs.
Related resources
This page is a general reference. Verify current regulations, aircraft documentation and operating requirements applicable to your flight.