Airman Certification Standards and You

July 27, 2016
The ACS lists the standards for what an applicant needs to know, consider, and do in order to pass both the knowledge test and the practical test for a certificate or rating.

July 27- The July/August 2016 issue of FAA Safety Briefing focuses on the world of student pilots and airmen-in-training. Building on our previous student pilot-themed editions in 2012 and 2014, this issue provides tips and resources for success in initial pilot certification. It also explores the new Airman Certification Standards (ACS), which begin rolling out this summer. The ACS lists the standards for what an applicant needs to know, consider, and do in order to pass both the knowledge test and the practical test for a certificate or rating.

Feature articles include:

  • The ABCs of ACS – A Better Certification System for Future Pilots (p. 10)
  • Here’s My Advice – Pilot Tips from Top CFIs (p. 14)
  • Junkyard Dog or Factory Fresh – Choosing the Right Trainer for You (p. 20)

In this issue’s Jumpseat department (p. 1), Flight Standards Service’s Director John Duncan discusses the connection between the new Airman Certification Standards and the FAA’s Compliance Philosophy, while Checklist (p. 21) explains how ACS helps define the “right stuff” with what is taught and tested for airman certification. You can also find out about the upcoming ACS for Aviation Maintenance Technicians in Nuts, Bolts, and Electrons (p. 36) as well as how ACS was able to incorporate the special emphasis items found in the Practical Test Standards in our Angle of Attack department (p. 37).

And for those headed to AirVenture 2016 this year, you’ll find a list of scheduled FAA safety forums (p. 7) as well as a background on each of this year’s National General Aviation Award winners (p. 34).

FAA Safety Briefing is the safety policy voice for the non-commercial general aviation community.  The magazine's objective is to improve safety by:

  • making the community aware of FAA resources,
  •  helping readers understand safety and regulatory issues, and
  •  encouraging continued training.

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