What is a BFR in Aviation

By Dan
Pilot Training

What exactly is a BFR in aviation terms? We have many acronyms in our world! A Biennial Flight Review (BFR), now officially known as a Flight Review, is a regulatory requirement under FAA Part 61.56 for pilots who wish to act as Pilot in Command (PIC) in the U.S. It’s an essential part of maintaining a pilot’s ongoing proficiency and safety, ensuring that pilots are still operating within safe standards after initial training. Here’s a breakdown of what it entails, who needs one, and what typically happens:

1. Who Needs a Flight Review?

  • All U.S. pilots holding a pilot certificate (such as private, commercial, or ATP) must complete a Flight Review every 24 calendar months to maintain PIC privileges.
  • This applies unless they have completed a pilot proficiency check (like an instrument proficiency check or type rating evaluation) within that period.
  • Sport and recreational pilots also require a BFR unless they meet equivalent review requirements within their certification levels.
  • Exemptions: Student pilots actively training toward a certificate and certain military pilots may be exempt.

2. What Happens in a Flight Review?

  • The Flight Review is not a pass/fail test but rather a structured learning and review session, consisting of:
    1. Ground Instruction: At least 1 hour focused on FAA regulations, flight safety topics, airspace rules, emergency procedures, weather, and other relevant topics. This ensures the pilot remains knowledgeable about operational and regulatory changes.
    2. Flight Portion: Another 1 hour in-flight review where the pilot demonstrates fundamental skills, typically including:
      • Basic maneuvers (e.g., stalls, steep turns, and slow flight)
      • Emergency procedures (e.g., simulated engine failures)
      • Communication proficiency
      • Navigation techniques
      • Pattern work and landing practice
  • Instructors will tailor the review based on the pilot's experience level, recent activities, and needs.

3. Who Conducts a BFR (Flight Review)?

  • A Certified Flight Instructor (CFI) typically performs the BFR, though for ATP-level pilots, the review can also be conducted by company check airmen or qualified instructors as permitted.

4. Outcomes and Record-Keeping

  • After the Flight Review, if the instructor is satisfied with the pilot's performance and knowledge, they will endorse the pilot’s logbook to indicate successful completion.
  • If further practice is needed, the instructor may recommend additional training sessions before endorsing.

The Flight Review is an invaluable opportunity for pilots to refresh skills, update knowledge, and discuss any areas they feel could use improvement with an instructor, enhancing overall safety and proficiency.

Contact Oshkosh Aviation today for us to help you with your flight review and be a part of your continued flight safety goals.