VFR REGULATIONS 21 / LEARN · EXPLORE · CHECK
Flight review
Count calendar months and keep the endorsement.
Your learning goals
- Apply the ordinary review.
- Recognize the limits and exceptions that affect this flight.
- Explain a decision using the scenario and supporting rule.
The ordinary review
To act as PIC, generally complete a flight review within the preceding 24 calendar months, in an aircraft for which you are rated, and receive the authorized instructor’s satisfactory-completion logbook endorsement. Normally it includes at least one hour ground and one hour flight training, reviewing Part 91 and safe exercise of your privileges. One hour each is a minimum, not a promised signoff.
Calendar months, not 730 days
A satisfactory review on September 10, 2026 ordinarily covers acting as PIC through September 30, 2028. On October 1, another qualifying event is needed. Use flight review, not “BFR,” as the current term.
Other ways to satisfy the requirement
Qualifying practical tests or proficiency checks, specified instructor practical tests, or satisfactory completion of an FAA pilot-proficiency-program phase can satisfy the rule. Not every lesson, online course, or instructor refresher automatically replaces the whole review. Verify the exact provision and documentation.
FLIGHT SCENARIO
What would change your plan?
Your review endorsement is dated September 10, 2026. Without another qualifying event, may you act as PIC on October 1, 2028?
- NoticeWhat does this situation require?
- VerifyWhat evidence is still missing?
- DecideWhat keeps an option open?
Compare your reasoning
No. The calendar-month window ended September 30, 2028. Plan the next review before the deadline.
SUMMARY
Count calendar months and keep the endorsement.
No. The calendar-month window ended September 30, 2028. Plan the next review before the deadline.
Before moving on, explain the decision in your own words: what would you verify, and what would make you change the plan?
PRACTICE
Flashcards and knowledge check
Six flashcards, then five questions with explanations.
Enable JavaScript for flashcards and the knowledge check. The lesson and scenario remain available without it.
Sources & lesson notes
Sources & lesson notes
- 14 CFR §61.56Verified against eCFR text current through September 15, 2026.
For U.S. private-pilot airplane study. Rules verified against eCFR text current through September 15, 2026, with linked FAA guidance. Scenarios isolate a rule; actual flight decisions require all applicable rules, aircraft limitations, and current information.