Introduction to Flying

When To Take the Knowledge Test knowledge and skill must be demonstrated by the applicant. The knowledge test is more meaningful to the applicant Since the FAA requires all practical tests be conducted in and more likely to result in a satisfactory grade if it is taken accordance with the appropriate PTS and the policies set forth after beginning the flight portion of the training. Therefore, in the Introduction section of the PTS book. The pilot applicant the FAA recommends the knowledge test be taken after the should become familiar with this book during training. student pilot has completed a solo cross-country flight. The operational knowledge gained by this experience can be used The PTS book is a testing document and not intended to be to the student’s advantage in the knowledge test. The student a training syllabus. An appropriately-rated flight instructor pilot’s CFI is the best person to determine when the applicant is responsible for training the pilot applicant to acceptable is ready to take the knowledge test. standards in all subject matter areas, procedures, and maneuvers. Descriptions of tasks and information on how to perform maneuvers and procedures are contained in reference Practical Test and teaching documents such as this handbook. A list of The FAA has developed PTS for FAA pilot certificates and associated ratings. [Figure 1-25] In 2015, the FAA reference documents is contained in the Introduction section of each PTS book. Copies may obtained by: began transitioning to the ACS approach. The ACS is essentially an “enhanced” version of the PTS. It adds task- • Downloading from the FAA website at www.faa.gov specific knowledge and risk management elements to each • Purchasing print copies from the GPO, Pittsburgh, PTS Area of Operation and Task. The result is a holistic, Pennsylvania, or via their official online bookstore integrated presentation of specific knowledge, skills, and at www.access.gpo.gov risk management elements and performance metrics for each Area of Operation and Task The ACS evaluation program The flight proficiency maneuvers listed in 14 CFR part 61 will eventually replace the PTS program for evaluating and are the standard skill requirements for certification. They certifying pilots. are outlined in the PTS as “areas of operation.” These are phases of the practical test arranged in a logical sequence The practical tests are administered by FAA ASIs and DPEs. within the standard. They begin with preflight preparation Title 14 CFR part 61 specifies the areas of operation in which and end with postflight procedures. Each area of operation FAA-S-8081-12C FAA-S-8081-14B FAA-S-8081-8B Figure 1-25. Examples of Practical Test Standards. 1-22