9/13/07                                                                                                                         8900.1 CHG 0

VOLUME 5   airman certification

Chapter 1   DIRECTION, GUIDANCE, AND PROCEDURES FOR title 14 CFR PARTS 121/135 AND GENERAL AVIATION

Section 3   Phases of Certification

5-511                  GENERAL. Any certification function, that might affect a pilot certificate or rating, requires the airman requesting the action (e.g., a practical test for a pilot certificate or rating, a pilot proficiency check, or knowledge and skill test) to fill out Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Form 8710-1, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application.

5-52                  COMPLETING FAA FORM 8710-1.

A.        Instructions. Instructions for accurate completion of this form (Figure 5-1) are included on a tear-off sheet at the top of the form.

B.        Special Emphasis Items. Particular attention should be paid to the following items:

1)          In section I, block A on the application, ensure the correct order of the applicant’s legal name (e.g., Brown, Michael William).

2)          In section I, block B on the application, the Social Security Number (SSN) is optional. If the SSN is unavailable for FAA use, enter “DO NOT USE.” If the applicant does not have a SSN, enter the word “NONE.” Do not leave this area blank.

3)          In section I, block C on the application, ensure the month and day are in the correct order (e.g., 08-30-1948).

4)          In section I, block D on the application, if the applicant’s place of birth is outside the United States (U.S.), ensure the applicant has identified the city and country (e.g., Mexico City, Mexico).

5)          In section I, block F on the application, if the applicant claims dual citizenship, ensure the applicant’s primary country is listed in this section. The temporary pilot certificate will show the second country in the limitation field (e.g., “Dual citizenship includes the country of France”).

6)          In section I, block H of the application, the applicant must indicate height in inches. Foreign applicants must convert to U.S. measurements (1 in = 2.54 cm; 1 cm = 0.3937 in).

7)          In section I, block I of the application, the applicant must indicate weight in pounds. Foreign applicants must convert to U.S. measurements (1 lb = 0.4536 kgs; 1 kg = 2.20 lbs).

8)          In section III of the application, Record of Pilot Time, the applicant must list at least the aeronautical experience required for the airman certificate and rating sought. Graduates of Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 141 pilot schools or part 142 training centers must provide their aeronautical experience in section III, even though the graduation certificate is evidence of having completed the course of training. If aeronautical experience has no bearing on the airman certification action sought, it is not necessary for an applicant to complete section III. For flight instructor renewal applications, ground instructor qualification applications, and pilot type rating applications, aeronautical experience would not have a bearing on the airman certification action; thus, the applicant would not be required to complete section III of the application. However, all applicants are encouraged to complete section III because the application remains on file with the FAA and can be used to substantiate past aeronautical experience in the case of a lost logbook.

9)          The instructor’s recommendation on the application should be accepted as meeting the required endorsements prescribed under 14 CFR part 61, § 61.39(a)(6).

10)  In the Aviation Safety Inspector or Technician Report section, the inspector checks “Approved” or “Disapproved,” as appropriate.

11)  The inspector indicates the certificate or rating for which the applicant was tested, the type of aircraft used, and its registration number. If more than one aircraft was used, all aircraft must be listed and all registration numbers provided.

12)  The inspector must check all applicable boxes on the application. Inspectors must include the location of the test and the duration of both ground and flight tests.

13)  In the Aviation Safety Inspector or Technician Report section of the application, the aviation safety inspector (ASI) or aviation safety technician (AST) dates and signs the application and enters his or her own pilot certification number (requirement for ASIs) and district office acronym (requirement for ASIs and ASTs). If the ASI or AST is accepting the recommendation of a designated pilot examiner (DPE), ensure the “Designated Examiner’s Report” is completed in its entirety and mark the Examiner’s Recommendation and Accepted/Rejected boxes.

14)  In the attachments section, the inspector must check all applicable boxes on the application.

C.        Revisions. The Airman Certification Branch, AFS-760, is advised to accept FAA Form 8710-1 with either clearly legible pen and ink changes to the boxes provided on the form or a legible attachment to the form, that shows the required flight experience, certified to by the applicant. This includes the entries for second in command (SIC) time. ASIs should ensure that DPEs and aircrew program managers are made aware of this procedure.

D.      Clarification Criteria and to Highlight Changes to FAA Form 8710-1.

1)          DPEs are required to check the block in the Designated Examiner’s Report section of FAA Form 8710-1, which states, “I have personally reviewed this applicant’s pilot logbook, and certify that the individual meets the pertinent requirements of 14 CFR part 61 for the pilot certificate or rating sought,” for applicants with part 141 school graduation certificates. Checking this block confirms that the DPE has validated the part 141 school graduate’s compliance with part 61, § 61.71.

2)          Under the provisions of § 61.71, an applicant who graduates from an approved training program under part 141 meets the applicable aeronautical experience, aeronautical knowledge, and areas of operation requirements of part 61, if the applicant presents the graduation certificate and passes the required practical test within the 60-day period after the date of graduation.

3)          The DPE’s review of the records of practical test applicants with part 141 school graduation certificates is equivalent to the DPE’s personal verification that the instructor’s signature on FAA Form 8710-1 correctly indicates that the applicant meets all applicable requirements.

4)          Flight Standards District Offices (FSDO) should remind district DPEs of the requirement to check the three applicable blocks in the Designated Examiner’s Report section of FAA Form 8710-1 for practical test applicants with part 141 school graduation certificates. FSDOs should also ensure that DPEs understand the format changes in the current edition of FAA Form 8710-1.

5)          The following changes were made to the form regarding alcohol-related offenses.

a)          Section I, block U of FAA Form 8710-1, omits reference to motor vehicle operations involving alcohol-related offenses. However, in the instructions for completing the form, the reference to alcohol was inadvertently left in. The reference to alcohol will be deleted from the instructions in future editions and should be disregarded in the interim.

b)          Although motor vehicle operations involving alcohol-related offenses were purposely removed from block U on FAA Form 8710-1, an applicant’s compliance with part 61, § 61.15 must still be determined. This should be adequately ensured by the medical examiner through the issuance of the airman’s medical and/or information to be reported by the airman and available to the FAA through the National Driver Registry.

6)          Block E, Completion of Air Carrier’s Approved Training Program, is added to section II of FAA Form 8710-1. For applicants applying for a certificate or rating on the basis of the completion of an air carrier’s approved training program, the name of the air carrier, the date of completion for the program, and the appropriate category of training must be indicated in section II, block E.

5-53                  VERIFICATION OF APPLICANT’S IDENTITY. The FAA recognizes the need for increased scrutiny of applicant identification. This ensures the actual identity of the pilot certificate applicant and helps the inspector establish the applicant’s eligibility. The inspector should require positive identification from each person presenting FAA Form 8710-1.

A.        Deficiencies. The FAA Drug Enforcement Assistance Act of 1988 identified the following deficiencies with regard to issuance of airmen certificates:

·              The use of fictitious names and addresses by applicants for certification;

·              The use of stolen or fraudulent identification in applying for certificates and ratings;

·              Use of a post office box or mail drop as a return address for the purpose of evading identification of the applicant’s address;

·              The use of counterfeit and stolen airman certificates; and

·              The absence of information concerning physical characteristics of holders of certificates.

B.        Applicant Identification Procedures. To ensure proper identification of pilot certificate applicants, and address deficiencies specified in the Drug Enforcement Assistance Act, the FAA has implemented the following procedures for field offices and DPEs:

1)          All applicants for airman certificates must apply in person and present positive identification at the time of application. Such identification must include an official photograph of the applicant, the applicant’s signature, and the applicant’s residential address, if different than the mailing address. This information may be presented in more than one form of identification.

2)          An examiner or inspector should not accept a post office box address on an airman certificate application from an applicant who resides on a rural route, boat, or in some other location that requires the use of a post office box, mail drop, or rural route number for an address, unless the applicant provides the geographical location of his or her residence on a separate piece of paper and attests by signature the preference or need for the use of a post office address. In the case of an applicant that resides on a boat, the boat document number or vessel registration number must be provided. The examiner attaches this paper to FAA Form 8710-1.

3)          FAA Form 8710-1 provides a space for the inspector or examiner to record the type of identification and number submitted (e.g., Virginia driver’s license number 123-45-6789).

4)          When an airman cannot provide a permanent residence address (i.e., as in the case where the person resides in a motor home or is in the process of moving), it is permissible to allow the airman to use his/her parent’s or friend’s permanent address as his/her permanent address. However, the airman should be reminded of the requirements of part 61, § 61.60 for change of address.

C.        Acceptable Methods of Identification. Acceptable methods of identification include, but are not limited to, driver’s licenses, government identification cards, passports, and other forms of identification that meet the requirements of subparagraph B1) above.

D.      Alternative Methods of Identification. Some applicants may not possess suitable identification as described above. In the case of an applicant under age 18, the applicant’s parent or guardian may have to accompany the applicant and identify themselves as described above. The parent or guardian may then attest to the applicant’s identity. For all other applicants, the identification procedures employed must be such that the inspector or examiner can positively identify the applicant in a manner acceptable to the inspector or examiner. In such cases, the identification procedures employed must be disclosed by the inspector or examiner on the application or, if necessary, in a separate statement. Furthermore, if the applicant appears before a designated examiner, the examiner must obtain approval from the supervising FAA district office for the identification procedure employed. If necessary, applicants may need to apply in person at the FAA field office, complete the required identification procedures, and then obtain an authorization to appear before the examiner for the practical test.

E.        Flight Instructor Renewals. If a certificated flight instructor is unable to appear in person before a representative of the Administrator, that instructor may establish his or her identity before either a notary public, a consular official of the U.S. State Department, or the airman’s U.S. Armed Forces commanding officer. The procedure described in the following paragraphs is not meant to preclude the FAA from exercising its prerogative to require an instructor applicant to demonstrate his or her qualifications to hold the certificate, if deemed appropriate.

1)          The applicant and certifying official must complete an appropriate identification affidavit, and the affidavit must be attached to FAA Form 8710-1. Care must be taken to use the same document(s) for identification on both the affidavit and the bottom of the reverse side of FAA Form 8710-1.

2)          The applicant must send FAA Form 8710-1, the identification affidavit, a valid flight instructor refresher clinic (FIRC) graduation certificate, and an unexpired flight instructor certificate to the FSDO of the applicant’s choice. The documents must arrive at the FSDO before the flight instructor certificate expires to be accepted for renewal.

3)          The receiving FSDO will process the application for renewal in the normal fashion. FAA Form 8710-1, the identification affidavit, superseded flight instructor certificate, and temporary airman certificate will be forwarded to AFS-760. Provided that the application package is complete and the FAA has no reason to require a demonstration of proficiency by the airman, the flight instructor certificate will be issued and mailed to the applicant. The FSDO will return the FIRC graduation certificate and the temporary certificate to the applicant.

F.          Applicant Identification Anomalies. When pilot certificate applicants present forms of identification that are unacceptable, inspectors and examiners should be alert for any indication of fraudulent or altered forms of identification or other irregularity that may indicate an attempt by the applicant to falsely represent his or her identity. Any such indication should be reported immediately to the nearest Civil Aviation Security Field Office or Regional Civil Aviation Security Division. Title 49 of the United States Code (49 U.S.C.) § 46306 (formerly § 902(b) of the FA Act), was amended to make willful or fraudulent misrepresentation for the purpose of applying for any FAA certificate grounds for criminal penalties of up to $15,000 and 3 years imprisonment or, if connected with transportation of controlled substances by aircraft, fines of up to $25,000 and 5 years imprisonment.

G.      Notification of Examiners. Regional Flight Standards division (RFSD) managers should ensure that all FSDOs provide copies of this information to all DPEs. District offices should also brief examiners on these procedures during regular examiner surveillance, annual examiner meetings, or other examiner contacts.

H.      Public Notification. Public notice of these procedural changes should be made by FAA headquarters. Field offices are authorized to describe the contents of this information to the public. Any questions that cannot be resolved may be directed to FAA Headquarters, Certification and General Aviation Operations Branch, AFS-810.

5-54                  DRUG CONVICTIONS AND APPLICATION. FAA Form 8710-1 asks in block U, “Have you been convicted for violation of any Federal or State statutes relating to narcotic drugs, marijuana, or depressant or stimulant drugs or substances?” The applicant must check “Yes” or “No,” as appropriate (refer to § 61.15).

A.        “No” Checked. If the “No” box is checked, the inspector conducts the practical test and, if appropriate, issues the airman certificate as usual. If it is determined later that the applicant should have checked “Yes,” the inspector should follow established procedures in Volume 7, Chapter 6, Conduct an Investigation of FAA Flight Operations to Determine Compliance, and FAA Order 2150.3, Compliance and Enforcement Program, regarding falsification of application.

B.         “Yes” Checked. If the applicant indicates “Yes,” the applicant must indicate the date of conviction.

1)          If the date of final conviction is more than 1 year before the date of application, the inspector should conduct the practical test and, if appropriate, issue the airman certificate as usual.

a)          An inspector must attach a note to the airman’s application before it is sent to AFS-760 to indicate that there has been a narcotics conviction more than 1 year before the date of application. AFS-760 should advise the appropriate regional flight surgeon.

b)          An examiner must contact an operations inspector in the nearest district office and advise the inspector that the file indicates a narcotics conviction more than 1 year before the date of application. The operations inspector receiving this notification should advise the appropriate regional flight surgeon of the situation.

2)          If the applicant checks the “Yes” box and the date of final conviction is less than 1 year before the date of application, the inspector must deny the application and issue a notice of disapproval. No practical test should be conducted. The notice of disapproval should state that the application was denied because of a narcotics conviction.

5-55                  INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING APPLICATION FORMS FOR PARTS 121 AND 135. Applicants should follow the instructions for completing FAA application forms carefully to preclude an excessive number of airman certification paperwork files from being returned by the AFS-760 for correction. Application forms are designed for computer processing of information. Applicants should be aware that character limitations are imposed in some areas. Inspectors should ensure that applicants use FAA Form 8710-1 for the airline transport pilot (ATP) certificate (see Figure 5-2) and FAA Form 8400-3, Application for an Airman Certificate and/or Rating, for the flight engineer, flight navigator, and aircraft dispatcher certificates (see Figure 5-3). Inspectors should use the procedures and guidance that follow when reviewing an application form.

A.        Front Side of Application Form. Inspectors should review the front side of the application form as follows:

1)          Ensure that the block designating the type of certificate for which application is being made is checked.

2)          When an applicant already holds the basic certificate and is applying for a rating to be added to the basic certificate, ensure that the “Additional Aircraft Rating” (FAA Form 8710-1) or the “Additional Rating” (FAA Form 8400-3) block is checked. This should only be checked when a rating is being added to an existing certificate.

3)          When the applicant already holds the certificate and is applying for the certificate to be reissued, ensure that the “Reissuance of ____________Certificate” (FAA Form 8710-1) or “Reissuance of Certificate” (FAA Form 8400-3) block is checked.

4)          On FAA Form 8400-3, ensure that both the make and model of the aircraft to be used are entered in the “Type of Aircraft to Be Used” block. This entry should be identical to the current designation listed in either Figure 5-5 or 5-6. Since aircraft type designations are frequently changed, a current listing of the designations may be obtained through the Flight Standards Automation System (FSAS). This current information may be obtained by selecting the airworthiness/‌Master Minimum Equipment List (MMEL) subsystem at the main FSAS menu. When the broadcast message page appears, press “enter” or “go” until the MMEL main menu appears. At the MMEL menu, select “type rating.”

5)          On FAA Form 8400-3, ensure that the time accrued in the make and model of aircraft to be used in the flight test is entered in the “Time in This Aircraft” block. Simulator time must not be entered. If the flight test will be conducted in two segments (simulator and aircraft), the block should be left blank until the applicant takes the aircraft portion of the test.

B.        “Application Information” (8710-1) or “Applicant Identification” (8400-3) Block. Inspectors should ensure that applicants complete this block and the appropriate subsequent blocks as follows:

1)          Name: Enter legal name but not more than one middle name. Do not change the name on subsequent applications unless it is done in accordance with part 61, § 61.25. The last name is limited to 17 characters. The first and middle names should not exceed 26 characters, including spaces between names. Hyphenated names should be shortened so that the number of characters allowed is not exceeded. If the applicant does not have a middle name, enter “NMI.” If the applicant has only a middle initial, add the note “initial only.” The name on the application should be the same as the name on the superseded certificate, unless the applicant’s name has been changed in accordance with § 61.25.

2)          Social Security No. or SSN: The SSN is optional; however, this block should not be left blank. If the SSN is not available for FAA use, enter “Do Not Use.” If the applicant does not have an SSN, enter “None.” In either case, AFS-760 will issue a nine-digit pilot certificate number.

3)          Date of Birth: Enter six numeric-character digits in this space. For example, enter 07-09-65 instead of July 9, 1965. Compare the date of birth on the application form with the date of birth on the applicant’s medical certificate to verify that they are the same and accurate.

4)          Place of Birth: If the applicant was born in the U.S., enter the city and state. If the city is unknown, enter the county and state. If the applicant was born outside of the U.S. or its territories, enter the city and country.

5)          Permanent Mailing Address or Address: Enter the address to which the permanent certificate is to be sent. Check for accuracy. Make sure numbers are not transposed. The number and street or the P.O. Box should not exceed 17 characters, including spaces.

6)          Nationality: Enter the applicant’s country of citizenship. Citizens of the United States should enter “USA.” All others should spell out the full name of the country.

7)          Height: Enter height in inches. For example, 5' 9" should be entered as 69 inches. Enter whole inches only. Do not enter fractions. Foreign applicants must convert to U.S. measurements (for height, 1 inch = 2.54 cm; 1 cm = .3937 inches).

8)          Weight: Enter weight in pounds. Enter whole pounds only. Do not enter fractions. Foreign applicants must convert to U.S. measurements (for weight, 1 lb = .4536 kg; 1 kg = 2.20 lb).

9)          Hair: Spell out the color of hair or use an abbreviation that cannot be confused with another color. If bald, enter “bald.” If wearing a toupee, enter color of hair under the wig or toupee.

10)  Eyes: Enter the true color of the eyes, regardless of whether tinted contact lenses are worn. Spell out the color or use an abbreviation that cannot be confused with another color.

11)  Sex: Enter male or female (“M” or “F” may be used).

12)  Block M on FAA Form 8710-1: Ensure that the applicant checks either “Yes” or “No.”

13)  Grade Pilot Certificate (on FAA Form 8710-1): Enter the grade of pilot certificate (such as student, recreational, private, commercial, or ATP) currently or previously held, not the grade for which application is being made. Flight instructor certificate information should not be entered into this block.

14)  Certificate Number (FAA Form 8710-1): If the applicant already holds or has previously held a pilot certificate, enter that certificate number.

C.        Drug-Related Convictions. Inspectors should use the following guidance when reviewing an application for drug-related information concerning the applicant.

1)          On November 29, 1990, a final rule affecting pilots convicted of alcohol- or drug-related motor vehicle offenses became effective. An airman’s conviction of a motor vehicle offense involving either alcohol or drugs is to be evaluated by the Aeromedical Certification Division, AAM-300. An alcohol- or drug-related conviction is not necessarily grounds for disqualification. A medical judgment relative to the condition involved must be made by the Federal Air Surgeon, the Manager of the Aeromedical Certification Division, or a regional flight surgeon. Under this new rule, an airman certificate or rating may be denied to an individual who has had two or more alcohol- or drug-related motor vehicle convictions or state motor vehicle actions within a 3-year period. The information requested on the old FAA Form 8710-1 exceeded the requirements currently outlined in 14 CFR. As a result of this problem, the language on the form was revised to comply with the new rule. When the Federal Air Surgeon reissues a medical certificate to a drug- or alcohol-convicted airman, the airman may then exercise the privileges of the new airman certificate. The inspector or examiner should inspect the applicant’s current medical certificate to ensure that it is valid.

2)          Block U on FAA Form 8710-1 contains the statement, “Have you been convicted for violation of Federal or State statutes relating to narcotic drugs, marijuana, or depressant or stimulant drugs or substances?” The applicant must check either “Yes” or “No.”

a)           If the applicant checked “No,” the inspector or examiner should conduct the practical test and, if appropriate, issue the airman certificate. If it is determined later that the applicant should have checked “Yes,” the inspector should conduct an investigation to determine compliance (see FAA Order 2150.3, Compliance and Enforcement, regarding falsification of application).

b)           If the applicant checked “Yes,” the applicant must indicate the date of final conviction. In this case, the inspector or examiner may not continue with the examination. The examiner should notify the appropriate FSDO of the decision to terminate the examination and forward the application to the FSDO. The FSDO should contact regional counsel to determine what action to take.

D.      “Certificates Held By Applicant” (on FAA Form 8400-3). Check the appropriate certificates currently held by the applicant.

E.        Section II, “Certificate or Rating Applied For on Basis of” (on FAA Form 8710-1). Check the appropriate block: A, B, C, D, or E.

1)          In block A1, “Aircraft to be used,” enter the make and model of the aircraft to be used. This should be identical to the current designation listed in either Figure 5-5 or 5-6. AFS-760 double checks this with the attached Temporary Airman Certificate (FAA Form 8060-4) (see Figure 5-4) to ensure that the proper aircraft type rating is issued.

2)          In block A2a, “Total time in this aircraft,” enter the time accrued in the make and model of aircraft to be used in the flight test, including flight training time. Do not enter simulator time. If the flight test will be conducted in two segments (simulator and aircraft), leave the space blank until the applicant takes the aircraft portion of the test.

3)          In block A2b, “Pilot-in-command,” enter total pilot in command (PIC) time in the aircraft to be used. For the ATP type rating, this block may be, and normally is, zero.

4)          In block B, “Military Competence Obtained in,” enter the applicant’s branch of service, date rated as a military pilot, current or last grade and service number, and the military aircraft flown as PIC for 10 hours or more in the last 12 months.

5)          Complete block C, “Graduate of Approved Course,” as follows:

a)          In block 1, “Name and Location of Training Agency or Training Center,” enter the name as shown on the graduation certificate. Be sure the location is entered.

b)          In block 1a, “Certification Number,” enter as shown on the graduation certificate.

c)          In block 2, “Curriculum From Which Graduated,” enter as shown on the graduation certificate.

d)          In block 3, “Date,” enter the date of graduation from the indicated course. An approved course graduate must also complete “Completion of Required Test” in block A.

6)          For block D, “Holder of Foreign License Issued By,” verify the entry accurately reflects the information on the foreign pilot license. See Volume 5, Chapter 2, Section 14, Issue a Title 14 CFR Part 61 U.S. Pilot Certificate on the Basis of a Foreign Pilot License, for guidance on issuing a certificate based on a foreign license.

7)          In block E, “Completion of Air Carrier’s Approved Training Program,” enter the name of the air carrier and the date that the last segment of the operator’s training program required for certification was completed. Then, enter the appropriate category of training (such as initial, upgrade, or transition).

Note:   The intermediate stages of the training will be reflected in the applicant’s training record.

F.          Section III, “Record of Pilot time” (FAA Form 8710-1). Ensure that applicants have entered at least the minimum flight experience required by the appropriate regulation for the certificate or rating sought. If flight experience has no bearing on the certificate action, such as exchange of certificate, it is not necessary to include flight experience on the application. Applicants should, however, be encouraged to enter flight experience for historical purposes any time an applicant completes this form. The “Instruction Received” blocks of the “Airplanes,” “Rotorcraft,” “Gliders,” and “Lighter than Air” lines refer to instruction in an aircraft in flight. The time entered in the “Training Device/Simulator” column is for instruction in simulators and training devices only.

G.      Section IV, “Have You Failed a Test for This Certificate or Rating?” Check the appropriate box. Inspectors and examiners must ensure that applicants who check “Yes” meet the requirements of 14 CFR part 61, § 61.49 (pilots), part 63, §§ 63.41 (flight engineers) and 63.59 (flight navigators), or part 65, § 65.19 (aircraft dispatchers).

Note:   The Air Transport Association of America (ATA) holds exemption number 3474 that requires flight crewmembers employed by an ATA member air carrier (or similarly situated operator) to apply for re-testing provided the flight crewmember has been re-trained by the operator and endorsed for the re-test.

H.      Section V, “Applicant’s Certification.” Enter the date that the application was signed. The applicant must certify to the accuracy and truth of the information on the application by signing in this space.

I.            Reverse Side of FAA Form 8710-1. The reverse side of this form is used for recommendations, reports, records and attachment notes, when required.

1)           The “Instructor’s Recommendation” block does not need to be signed for an ATP certificate or for a type rating (see 14 CFR part 1, § 1.39(a)(6)(iii)); however, when an applicant has received instruction in an approved 14 CFR part 121 or 135 training program, an instructor, supervisor, or check airman must certify (in the applicant’s training record) that the applicant’s knowledge and proficiency is satisfactory in accordance with §§ 121.401(c) and 135.323(c) before the applicant may take the test.

2)           The “Air Agency’s Recommendation” block is only used by part 141 pilot schools and their examining authority.

3)           The “Designated Examiner’s Report” block is used by aircrew program designees (APD), air carrier airman examiners, and general aviation pilot examiners. The APD or examiner who issues the Temporary Airman Certificate or Notice of Disapproval of Application (FAA Form 8060-5) is required to sign this block, and must check the “I have personally tested and/or verified this applicant . . . ” block and the “Approved” or “Disapproved” block. The APD or examiner must then complete the information requested in the boxes titled, “Location of Test”; “Certificate or Rating for Which Tested”; “Type(s) of Aircraft Used” (with level of simulator used); and “Registration No.(s)” of aircraft, if used. The remaining blocks need to be completed with date, examiner’s signature, certificate number, designation number and expiration date. The “Duration of Test” block should contain an indication of the approximate duration of the oral, simulator, and flight check. The level of simulator used must be noted in the “Type(s) of Aircraft Used” block of the examiner’s report.

4)           The “Evaluator’s Record for Airline Transport Certificate/Rating Only” block must be used by inspectors, designated examiners, and APDs who administer multiple-phase testing for an ATP certificate or a type rating added to an ATP certificate. The inspector, designated examiner, or APD who administers each phase of the test must sign on the appropriate line and enter the date. Inspectors should enter their organizational identifier. Designated examiners and APDs should enter their designee number.

J.          “Inspector’s Report.” This section is to be completed only by FAA ASIs.

1)          If the inspector has personally tested the applicant and is issuing or denying a certificate, the inspector should check the appropriate box: “Approved-Temporary Certificate Issued” or “Disapproved-Disapproval Notice Issued.” Inspectors should complete the information requested in the boxes titled “Location of Test;” “Certificate or Rating for Which Tested;” “Type(s) of Aircraft Used” (with level of simulator used); and “Registration No.(s)” of aircraft, if used. If the inspector did not issue the Temporary Airman Certificate or the Notice of Disapproval of Application, all of these boxes must be left blank. The inspector completes this section by dating, signing, and identifying the inspector’s permanently assigned FSDO.

2)          Inspectors reviewing applications completed by examiners should check the block titled “Examiner’s Recommendation” and either “Accepted” or “Rejected.” If the inspector rejects the examiner’s recommendation, the inspector must attach a brief statement containing both an explanation and any intended further actions (such as a reexamination). The inspector should then date, sign, and enter the FSDO designation.

3)          Inspectors renewing a part 121 or 135 flight crewmember’s flight instructor rating must check the “Certificate or Rating Based on” block, the “Certificate Issued” block, the “Instructor” block, the “Flight” block, the “Renewal” block, the “Approved” block, and the “Instructor Renewal Based on ‘Activity’ or ‘Acquaintance’” block. The inspector should complete this section of the form by dating, signing, and identifying the inspector’s permanently assigned FSDO (such as ASO-FSDO-19); regional office (such as ASO-260); or headquarters office (such as AFS-250); into the “FAA District Office” block.

K.      “Attachments.” This section of the form is used for recording the method of documenting the applicant’s identity and the documents attached to the application.

5-56                  ORAL TEST PHASE FOR PARTS 121 AND 135. Oral testing is conducted to determine whether the applicant has acquired adequate practical knowledge to safely and competently exercise the privileges of the certificate.

A.        Location. The preferred locations for conducting oral tests for airman certificates are in ground training devices, flight training devices, or flight simulators. The interactive logic available in these devices provides an effective method of testing the applicant’s knowledge of normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures.

B.        Question Phrasing. Questions should be phrased in simple, focused, and specific terms. Applicants should be encouraged to answer in the same manner. An example of a simple, focused, and specific question is, “What is the maximum allowable exhaust gas temperature (EGT) limit during a normal engine start?” An example of an abstract, ambiguous, and confusing question is, “Tell me everything you know about starting an engine.” Inspectors and examiners should encourage applicants to ask for clarification, before answering, when they are unsure of the meaning of a question.

C.        Length and Scope. The scope of oral tests is defined by regulation. The items that should be evaluated on each type of oral test are specified in the applicable regulations, practical test standards (PTS), and job aids. Inspectors and examiners should choose their questions from the entire range of appropriate topics rather than concentrate on only a few topics. Questions should be related to the specific characteristics of the aircraft involved. The length of the oral test depends on the complexity of the aircraft involved. For simpler aircraft with uncomplicated systems, the oral test can normally be accomplished in approximately 1 hour. For large, complex aircraft, the oral test can normally be accomplished in approximately 2 hours.

D.      Standards of Performance. Part 121, § 121.403(b)(3) and part 135, § 135.327(b)(3) require that operators publish “detailed descriptions or pictorial displays of the approved normal, abnormal, and emergency maneuvers, procedures and functions that will be performed during each flight training phase or flight check, indicating those maneuvers, procedures and functions that are to be performed during the in-flight portions of flight training and flight checks.” Operators must use Airline Transport Pilot and Type Rating Practical Test Standard (FAA-S-8081-5), any applicable Flight Standardization Board (FSB) reports, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Inspectors and examiners should use the standards approved by the principal operations inspector (POI) for the operator when conducting oral tests.

1)          Applicants are expected to possess a broad understanding of the aircraft and its systems rather than a highly detailed knowledge of component design and construction. They should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the essential features of system design and how various systems interrelate. Applicants must be able to demonstrate such knowledge by interpreting cockpit indications and describing the condition of aircraft systems from these indications. Applicants are not expected to have memorized specific facts that are immediately available in reference manuals and checklists that are required to be in the cockpit. Applicants must, however, be able to state memory items on emergency checklists (in the correct sequence) and flight manual limitations from memory.

a)          When a limitation is presented in terms of a gauge marking, the applicant should be able to state the operational significance of the marking but does not need to have memorized the appropriate value the marking represents. When a limitation is not clearly presented by such a marking, the applicant must be able to state the appropriate value from memory.

b)          To illustrate the standards described, the following example is provided. Assume the aircraft involved requires a specific fuel burn sequence. The applicant should be able to describe in general terms the fuel burn sequence and to detect correct and incorrect conditions from gauge indications. The applicant should be aware of any checklist or procedure that corrects an improper condition and where that checklist or procedure is located. The applicant is not expected to memorize the sequence of steps necessary to correct the condition. On the other hand, the applicant should be able to state from memory the flight manual limitation concerning allowable fuel imbalance between pairs of tanks.

2)          An applicant may not be able to give entirely correct answers to some of the questions in an oral test; however, that applicant may still meet an acceptable standard. Inspectors and examiners must base their decisions on whether applicants pass or fail on the soundness of the applicants’ overall command of basic principles. Inspectors and examiners should avoid commenting on an applicant’s performance until after the oral test is complete.

E.        Debriefing. Immediately after the oral test, the applicant will be debriefed on performance and informed of the results of the test.

5-57                  FLIGHT TEST PHASE. Sections 121.403(b)(3) and 135.327(b)(3) require that operators publish “detailed descriptions or pictorial displays of the approved normal, abnormal, and emergency maneuvers, procedures and functions that will be performed during each flight training phase or flight check, indicating those maneuvers, procedures and functions that are to be performed during the in-flight portions of flight training and flight checks.” Operators must use Airline Transport Pilot and Type Rating Practical Test Standard (FAA-S-8081-5), any applicable FSB reports, and the manufacturer’s recommendations. Inspectors and examiners should use the standards approved by the POI for the operator when conducting flight tests.

A.        Purpose. The purpose of the flight test is to evaluate the applicant’s ability to operate safely and effectively in a real-time environment. Inspectors and examiners should determine whether applicants have achieved an acceptable level of physical manipulation skills, positional orientation abilities, flight management skills, and crew coordination skills. Flight tests can normally be conducted in 2-1/2 hours.

B.        Separation of Oral Phase from Flight Test Phase. For all flightcrew airman certificates, the oral and flight test phases should not be conducted simultaneously. The purpose of the oral test phase is to examine an applicant’s depth of knowledge while the purpose of the flight test phase is to observe and evaluate an applicant’s skills. An inspector’s or examiner’s presence in the cockpit can affect the normal interaction of the flightcrew. Inspectors and examiners should endeavor to minimize this effect by maintaining a passive role and by not becoming involved in normal crew operation. Questions that require explanations and probe the applicant’s depth of knowledge are appropriate during the oral test phase but not during the flight test phase.

C.        Normal, Abnormal, and Emergency Procedure Test Events. The events that must be evaluated on each flight test are specified by regulation or determined by the Administrator. The events have been listed on appropriate job aids for the convenience of inspectors and examiners. The regulations require inspectors to evaluate normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures that appear in the operator’s manual but are not specifically identified by regulation. Inspectors and examiners should evaluate on each flight test as many of these events that the inspector or examiner “finds are necessary to determine that the person being checked has an adequate knowledge of, and ability to perform, such procedures . . .” (see part 61, appendix A, VI and VII). Examples of these events include flight instrument and display failures, operations in ice and rain, emergency descent, and emergency ground evacuation. Inspectors should vary these events on subsequent flight tests so that the effectiveness of the operator’s manual and training program can be evaluated.

D.      Flight Management and Crew Coordination Skills. Inspectors and examiners should observe and evaluate crew coordination and flight management skills. The applicant must demonstrate good judgment, continual spatial and situational awareness, and cockpit management throughout the flight test.

E.        Briefings. Before the flight simulator segment and aircraft segment of a flight test, inspectors and examiners should brief applicants on what will be expected of them during the flight test. Before the flight test, inspectors and examiners should determine by agreement with the applicant whether or not to continue the flight test after a failed event. When other crewmembers are involved, they should be briefed on their roles. Suggested briefing outlines are included on the job aids. Inspectors and examiners should avoid commenting on the applicant’s performance during the flight test.

F.          Debriefings. After the test, the applicant should be informed of the results and debriefed in a timely manner. If the applicant is unsuccessful, the inspector or examiner should ensure that the applicant clearly understands specifically what was unsatisfactory about each event that was failed. Inspectors and examiners should use judgment and discretion when inviting other crewmembers to attend these debriefings. It is important that company instructors or check airmen receive direct feedback on their students’ performances. Instructors or check airmen who participate in flight tests (as copilots or safety pilots) should usually be invited to attend these debriefings. An inspector or examiner may choose to limit attendance at the debriefing to only the applicant. If an instructor or check airman who participated in the flight test is not at the debriefing, the inspector or examiner should debrief that person at a later time.

G.      Termination of Flight Tests Before Completion. When the inspector or examiner determines that an applicant’s performance is unsatisfactory, the inspector or examiner may then either terminate the flight test immediately or, with the consent of the applicant, continue with the flight test until the remaining events are completed. Usually, graduates of approved training programs are well prepared. Although a single event is failed, retraining and retesting in all events of the flight test is normally unnecessary. In such cases, it is usually better for the inspector or examiner to continue with the flight test to complete the other events. When the inspector or examiner determines that the entire flight test must be repeated, the flight test should not be continued but should be immediately terminated. Whether the flight test is continued or not after a failure, the inspector or examiner must issue the applicant an FAA Form 8060-5, Notice of Disapproval of Application. Safety pilots should immediately terminate any maneuver or an entire flight test whenever flight safety is in question.

H.      Inconclusive Events. When the inspector or examiner is unable to determine whether the objectives of an event have been met, the inspector or examiner may require the applicant to repeat the event or a portion of the event. This provision has been made in the interest of fairness and does not mean that instruction or practice is permitted during the certification process. Inspectors and examiners should not repeat completed, failed maneuvers.

Note:   If the check must be terminated (for mechanical or other reasons) and there are events which still need to be repeated, a Letter of Discontinuance, valid for 60 days, should be issued listing the specific areas of operation that have been successfully completed (see Figure 5-7).

Figure 5-1, FAA Form 8710-1, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application

Figure 5-2, FAA Form 8710-1, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application

Figure 5-3, FAA Form 8400-3, Application for Airman Certificate and/or Rating

Figure 5-4, FAA Form 8060-4, Temporary Airman Certificate

Figure 5-5, Pilot Certificate Aircraft Type Designations—Airplanes

Figure 5-6, Pilot Certificate Aircraft Type Designations—Rotorcraft

Figure 5-7, Sample Letter of Discontinuance

FAA Letterhead

[date]

[applicant’s name and address]

Dear [applicant’s name]:

On this date, you successfully completed the oral portion of the practical test for a [indicate grade] certificate with an [indicate category] and [indicate class] class rating. The practical test was discontinued because of [indicate reason].

If application is made by [indicate date 60 days from date of letter], this letter may be used to show the following portions of the practical test which have been completed satisfactorily:

[Indicate areas of operation completed on the test.]

After [indicate expiration date], you must repeat the entire practical test.

Sincerely,

[signature of inspector conducting practical test of examiner candidate]

RESERVED. Paragraphs 5-58 through 5-75.