The Commercial Pilot – Airplane Practical Test Standards (PTS) book has been published by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to establish the standards for commercial pilot certification practical tests for the airplane category, single-engine, land and sea; and multiengine, land and sea classes. FAA inspectors and designated pilot examiners shall conduct practical tests in compliance with these standards. Flight instructors and applicants should find these standards helpful during training and when preparing for the practical test.

 

Thomas C. Accardi

Director, Flight Standards Service

 

RECORD OF CHANGES

Change 1: 4/28/97

Reason: Text in all STEEP TURNS Tasks has been changed to emphasize steep turn entry speed at manufacturer's recommended speed, or one designated by the Examiner, not to exceed V_A. This provides an option of a slower entry speed, when operating a lower performance land or seaplane.

SINGLE-ENGINE LAND

AREA OF OPERATION: PERFORMANCE MANEUVERS

TASK A: STEEP TURNS

 

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

General Information

Practical Test Standard Concept

Practical Test Book Description

Practical Test Standard Description

Use of the Practical Test Standards Book

Commercial Pilot — Airplane Practical Test Prerequisites

Aircraft and Equipment Required for the Practical Test

Use of FAA Approved Flight Simulator or Flight Training Device (FTD)

Examiner Responsibility

Satisfactory Performance

Unsatisfactory Performance

Crew Resource Management (CRM)

Applicant’s Use of Checklists

Use of Distractions During Practical Tests

Metric Conversion Initiative

Positive Exchange of Flight Controls

Flight Instructor Responsibility

 

SECTION 1: COMMERCIAL PILOT AIRPLANE — SINGLE-ENGINE LAND

CONTENTS

RATING TASK TABLE

APPLICANT’S PRACTICAL TEST CHECKLIST

EXAMINER’S PRACTICAL TEST CHECKLIST

 

AREAS OF OPERATION:

I. PREFLIGHT PREPARATION

II. PREFLIGHT PROCEDURES

III. AIRPORT OPERATIONS

IV. TAKEOFFS, LANDINGS, AND GO-AROUNDS

V. PERFORMANCE MANEUVERS

VI GROUND REFERENCE MANEUVER

VII. NAVIGATION

VIII. SLOW FLIGHT AND STALLS

IX. EMERGENCY OPERATIONS

X. HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATIONS

XI. POSTFLIGHT PROCEDURES

 

 

INTRODUCTION

General Information

The Flight Standards Service of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has developed this practical test book as the standard to be used by FAA inspectors and designated pilot examiners when conducting commercial pilot — airplane (single-engine land, multiengine land, single-engine sea, and multiengine sea) practical tests. Flight instructors are expected to use this book when preparing applicants for practical test. Applicants should be familiar with this book and refer to these standards during their training.

 

Information considered directive in nature is described in this practical test book in terms such as "shall" and "must" indicating the actions are mandatory. Guidance information is described in terms such as "should" and "may" indicating the actions are desirable or permissive but not mandatory.

 

The FAA gratefully acknowledges the valuable assistance provided by many individuals and companies who contributed their time and talent in assisting with the revision of these practical test standards.

 

This practical test standards may be accessed through the FedWorld Information System by computer modem at 703-321-3339. It may also be accessed on the Internet at http://www.fedworld.gov/pub/faa-att/faa-att.htm. This address goes to the index of training and testing files in the FAA-ATT Library on FedWorld. Subsequent changes to these standards, in accordance with AC 60-27, Announcement of Availability: Changes to Practical Test Standards, will be available through FedWorld and then later incorporated into a printed revision.

 

This publication may be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.

 

Comments regarding this publication should be sent to:

 

U.S. Department of Transportation

Federal Aviation Administration

Flight Standards Service

Airman Testing Standards Branch, AFS-630

P.O. Box 25082

Oklahoma City, OK 73125

 

Practical Test Standard Concept

Title 14 of the Code of Federal Regulations (14 CFR) part 61 specifies the areas in which knowledge and skill must be demonstrated by the applicant before the issuance of a commercial pilot certificate. The CFRs provide the flexibility to permit the FAA to publish practical test standards containing specific TASKS in which pilot competency shall be demonstrated. The FAA will revise this book whenever it is determined that changes are needed in the interest of safety. Adherence to the provisions of the regulations and the practical test standards is mandatory for evaluation of commercial pilot applicants.

 

Practical Test Book Description

This test book contains the following commercial pilot — airplane practical test standards:

 

Section 1 Airplane, Single-Engine Land

 

The Commercial Pilot Practical Test Standards — Airplane include the AREAS OF OPERATION and TASKS for the issuance of an initial commercial pilot certificate and for the addition of category and/or class ratings to that certificate.

 

Practical Test Standard Description

AREAS OF OPERATION are phases of the practical test arranged in a logical sequence within each standard. They begin with preflight preparation and end with postflight procedures. The examiner, however, may conduct the practical test in any sequence that results in a complete and efficient test.

 

TASKS are titles of knowledge areas, flight procedures, or maneuvers appropriate to an AREA OF OPERATION.

 

NOTE is used to emphasize special considerations required in the AREA OF OPERATION or TASK.

 

The REFERENCE identifies the publication(s) that describe(s) the TASK. Descriptions of TASKS are not included in the standards because this information can be found in the current issue of the listed reference. Publications other than those listed may be used for references if their content conveys substantially the same meaning as the referenced publications.

 

References upon which this practical test book is based include:

14 CFR part 43 Maintenance, Preventive Maintenance, Rebuilding, and Alteration

14 CFR part 61 Certification: Pilots and Flight Instructors

14 CFR part 91 General Operating and Flight Rules

AC 00-6 Aviation Weather

AC 00-45 Aviation Weather Services

AC 61-21 Flight Training Handbook

AC 61-23 Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge

AC 61-27 Instrument Flying Handbook

AC 61-65 Certification: Pilots and Flight Instructors

AC 61-67 Stall and Spin Awareness Training

AC 61-84 Role of Preflight Preparation

AC 61-107 Operation of Aircraft at Altitudes Above 25,000 Feet MSL

AC 61-115 Positive Exchange of Flight Controls Program

AC 67-2 Medical Handbook for Pilots

AC 90-48 Pilots’ Role in Collision Avoidance

AC 91-13 Cold Weather Operation of Aircraft

AC 91-23 Pilot’s Weight and Balance Handbook

AC 91-55 Reduction of Electrical System Failures Following Aircraft Engine Starting

AIM Aeronautical Information Manual

AFD Airport/Facility Directory

NOTAM’s Notices to Airmen

FAA-P-8740-48 On Landings

FAA-S-8081-4 Instrument Rating Practical Test Standards

Other Pertinent Pilot Operating Handbooks

FAA-Approved Flight Manuals

Navigation Charts

Seaplane Supplement

 

The Objective lists the important elements that must be satisfactorily performed to demonstrate competency in a TASK. The Objective includes:

specifically what the applicant should be able to do;

the conditions under which the TASK is to be performed; and

the acceptable standards of performance.

 

Use of the Practical Test Standards Book

The Commercial Pilot Practical Test Standards have been designed to evaluate the competency of commercial pilots in both knowledge and skill. Commercial pilots are professionals engaged in various flight activities for compensation or hire. Because of their professional status, they should exhibit a significantly higher level of knowledge and skill than the private pilot. Although some TASKS listed are similar to those in the Private Pilot Practical Test Standards, the wording used in the Commercial Pilot Practical Test Standards is intended to reflect a higher level of competency expected of a commercial pilot applicant in performing these similar TASKS.

 

The FAA requires that all practical tests be conducted in accordance with the appropriate Commercial Pilot Practical Test Standards and the policies set forth in the INTRODUCTION. Commercial pilot applicants shall be evaluated in ALL TASKS included in the AREAS OF OPERATION of the appropriate practical test standard (unless instructed or noted otherwise).

 

In preparation for each practical test, the examiner shall develop a written "plan of action." The "plan of action" shall include all TASKS in each AREA OF OPERATION. If the elements in one TASK have already been evaluated in another TASK, they need not be repeated. For example: the "plan of action" need not include evaluating the applicant on complying with markings, signals, and clearances at the end of the flight if that element was sufficiently observed at the beginning of the flight. Any TASKS selected for evaluation during a practical test shall be evaluated in its entirety.

 

The examiner is not required to follow the precise order in which the AREAS OF OPERATION and TASKS appear in this book. The examiner may change the sequence or combine TASKS with similar Objectives to have an orderly and efficient flow of the practical test. For example, emergency descents may be combined with high-altitude operations. The examiner’s "plan of action" shall include the order and combination of TASKS to be demonstrated by the applicant in a manner that will result in an efficient and valid test.

 

Examiners shall place special emphasis upon areas of aircraft operation that are most critical to flight safety. Among these are precise aircraft control and sound judgment in decision making. Although these areas may or may not be shown under each TASK, they are essential to flight safety and shall receive careful evaluation throughout the practical test. If these areas are shown in the Objective, additional emphasis shall be placed on them. THE EXAMINER SHALL ALSO EMPHASIZE STALL/SPIN AWARENESS, WAKE TURBULENCE AVOIDANCE, LOW LEVEL WIND SHEAR, COLLISION AVOIDANCE, RUNWAY INCURSION AVOIDANCE, AND CHECKLIST USAGE.

 

The examiner is expected to use good judgment in the performance of simulated emergency procedures. The use of the safest means for simulation is expected. Consideration must be given to local conditions, both meteorological and topographical, at the time of the test, as well as the applicant’s ATC workload, and the condition of the aircraft used. If the procedure being evaluated would put the maneuver in jeopardy, it is expected that the applicant will simulate that portion of the maneuver i.e. - hand cranking a gear.

 

Commercial Pilot — Airplane Practical Test Prerequisites

An applicant for the commercial pilot — airplane practical test is required by 14 CFR part 61 to:

possess a private pilot certificate with an airplane rating, if a commercial pilot certificate with an airplane rating is sought, or meet the flight experience required for a private pilot certificate (airplane rating) and pass the private airplane knowledge and practical test;

possess an instrument rating (airplane) or the following limitation will be placed on the commercial pilot certificate: "Carrying passengers in airplanes for hire is prohibited at night or on cross-country flights of more than 50 nautical miles;"

pass the appropriate airman knowledge test since the beginning of the 24th month before the month in which the practical test is taken;

obtain the applicable instruction and aeronautical experience prescribed for the pilot certificate or rating sought;

possess a current medical certificate appropriate to the certificate or rating sought;

meet the age requirement for the issuance of the certificate or rating sought; and

obtain a written statement from an authorized flight instructor certifying that the applicant has been given flight instruction in preparation for the practical test within 60 days preceding the date of application. The statement shall also state that the instructor finds the applicant competent to pass the practical test and that the applicant has satisfactory knowledge of the subject area(s) in which a deficiency was indicated by the airman knowledge test report.

 

Aircraft and Equipment Required for the Practical Test

The commercial pilot applicant is required by 14 CFR part 61 section 61.45 to provide an airworthy, certificated aircraft for use during the practical test. This section further requires that the aircraft:

have fully functioning dual controls except as provided in this CFR Section;

be capable of performing ALL appropriate TASKS for the commercial pilot certificate or rating and have no operating limitations that prohibit the performance of those TASKS; and

must be a complex aircraft furnished by the applicant for the performance of takeoffs, landings, and appropriate emergency procedures. A complex landplane is one having retractable gear, flaps, and controllable propeller or turbojet propulsion. A complex seaplane is one having flaps and controllable propeller.

 

Use of FAA-Approved Flight Simulator or Flight Training Device

An airman applicant for commercial pilot – airplane certification may be authorized to use an FAA-qualified and approved flight simulator or flight training device, to complete certain flight task requirements listed in this practical test standard. An applicant seeking such certification must complete the training and testing requirements at an approved pilot school or training center.

 

An airman applicant seeking an added airplane rating to a commercial certificate may also use a qualified and approved flight simulator or flight training device to complete the flight task requirements in accordance with Appendix 1 and 2 of these practical test standards. These appendices should be consulted to identify which flight tasks may be accomplished in an approved flight simulator or flight training device. The level of flight simulator or flight training device required for each maneuver or procedure will also be found in the appropriate appendix. An appropriate class airplane is required to complete the remaining flight TASKS for certification.

 

When flight tasks are accomplished in an aircraft, certain task elements may be accomplished through "simulated" actions in the interest of safety and practicality, but when accomplished in a flight simulator or flight training device, these same actions would not be "simulated." For example, when in an aircraft, a simulated engine fire may be addressed by retarding the throttle to idle, simulating the shutdown of the engine, simulating the discharge of the fire suppression agent, if applicable, simulating the disconnect of associated electrical, hydraulic, and pneumatics systems, etc. However, when the same emergency

condition is addressed in a flight simulator or flight training device, all task elements must be accomplished as would be expected under actual circumstances.

 

Similarly, safety of flight precautions taken in the aircraft for the accomplishment of a specific maneuver or procedure (such as limiting altitude in an approach to stall or setting maximum airspeed for an engine failure expected to result in a rejected takeoff) need not be taken when a flight simulator or flight training device is used.

 

It is important to understand that whether accomplished in an aircraft, flight simulator or flight training device, all TASKS and elements for each maneuver or procedure shall have the same performance standards applied equally for determination of overall satisfactory performance.

 

Examiner Responsibility

The examiner conducting the practical test is responsible for determining that the applicant meets the acceptable standards of knowledge and skill of each TASK within the appropriate practical test standard. Since there is no formal division between the "oral" and "skill" portions of the practical test, this becomes an ongoing process throughout the test. To avoid unnecessary distractions, oral questioning should be used judiciously at all times, especially during the flight portion of the practical test.

 

Examiner’s shall test to the greatest extent practicable the applicant’s correlative abilities rather than mere rote enumeration of facts throughout the practical test.

 

During the flight portion of the practical test, the examiner shall evaluate the applicant’s use of visual scanning and collision avoidance procedures.

 

Satisfactory Performance

Satisfactory performance to meet the requirements for certification is based on the applicant's ability to safely:

perform the approved areas of operation for the certificate or rating sought within the approved standards;

demonstrate mastery of the aircraft with the successful outcome of each task performed never seriously in doubt;

demonstrate sound judgment; and

demonstrate single-pilot competence if the aircraft is type certificated for single-pilot operations.

 

Unsatisfactory Performance

If, in the judgment of the examiner, the applicant does not meet the standards of performance of any TASK performed, the associated AREA OF OPERATION is failed and therefore, the practical test is failed. The examiner or applicant may discontinue the test any time after the failure of an AREA OF OPERATION makes the applicant ineligible for the certificate or rating sought. The test will be continued ONLY with the consent of the applicant. If the test is either continued or discontinued, the applicant is entitled credit for only those TASKS satisfactorily performed. However, during the retest and at the discretion of the examiner, any TASK may be re-evaluated including those previously passed.

 

Typical areas of unsatisfactory performance and grounds for disqualification are:

Any action or lack of action by the applicant that requires corrective intervention by the examiner to maintain safe flight.

Failure to use proper and effective visual scanning techniques to clear the area before and while performing maneuvers.

Consistently exceeding tolerances stated in the Objectives.

Failure to take prompt corrective action when tolerances are exceeded.

When a disapproval notice is issued, the examiner shall record the applicant's unsatisfactory performance in terms of AREA OF OPERATIONS appropriate to the practical test conducted.

 

Crew Resource Management (CRM)

CRM " ...refers to the effective use of ALL available resources; human resources, hardware, and information. "Human resources" ...includes all other groups routinely working with the cockpit crew (or pilot) who are involved in decisions that are required to operate a flight safely. These groups include, but are not limited to: dispatchers, cabin crewmembers, maintenance personnel, and air traffic controllers." CRM is not a single TASK, it is a set of skill competencies that must be evident in all TASKS in this practical test standard as applied to either single pilot or a crew operation.

 

 

Applicant's Use of Checklists

Throughout the practical test, the applicant is evaluated on the use of an appropriate checklist. Proper use is dependent on the specific TASK being evaluated. The situation may be such that the use of the checklist, while accomplishing elements of an Objective, would be either unsafe or unfeasible, especially in a single-pilot operation. In this case, the method might demand the need to review the checklist after the elements have been met. In any case, use of a checklist must consider proper scanning vigilance and division of attention at all times.

 

Use of Distractions During Practical Tests

Numerous studies indicate that many accidents have occurred when the pilot has been distracted during critical phases of flight. To evaluate the pilot's ability to utilize proper control technique while dividing attention both inside and/or outside the cockpit, the examiner shall cause a realistic distraction during the flight portion of the practical test to evaluate the applicant's ability to divide attention while maintaining safe flight.

 

Metric Conversion Initiative

To assist the pilots in understanding and using the metric measurement system, the practical test standards refer to the metric equivalent of various altitudes throughout. The inclusion of meters is intended to familiarize pilots with its use. The metric altimeter is arranged in 10 meter increments; therefore, when converting from feet to meters, the exact conversion, being too exact for practical purposes, is rounded to the nearest 10 meter increment or even altitude as necessary.

 

Positive Exchange of Flight Controls

During flight training, there must always be a clear understanding between students and flight instructors of who has control of the aircraft. Prior to flight, a briefing should be conducted that includes the procedure for the exchange of flight controls. A positive three-step process in the exchange of flight controls between pilots is a proven procedure and one that is strongly recommended.

 

When the instructor wishes the student to take control of the aircraft, he/she will say "You have the flight controls." The student acknowledges immediately by saying, "I have the flight controls." The flight instructor again says "You have the flight controls." When control is returned to the instructor, follow the same procedure. A visual check is recommended to verify that the exchange has occurred. There should never be any doubt as to who is flying the aircraft.

 

Flight Instructor Responsibility

An appropriately rated flight instructor is responsible for training the commercial pilot applicant to acceptable standards in all subject matter areas, procedures, and maneuvers included in the TASKS within the appropriate commercial pilot practical test standard. Because of the impact of their teaching activities in developing safe, proficient pilots, flight instructors should exhibit a high level of knowledge, skill, and the ability to impart that knowledge and skill to students. Additionally, the flight instructor must certify that the applicant is able to perform safely as a commercial pilot and is competent to pass the required practical test.

 

Throughout the applicant's training, the flight instructor is responsible for emphasizing the performance of effective visual scanning, collision avoidance, and runway incursion avoidance procedures. These areas are covered, in part, in AC 90-48, Pilot's Role in Collision Avoidance; AC 61-21, Flight Training Handbook; AC 61-23, Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge; and the Aeronautical Information Manual.

 

APPLICANT’S PRACTICAL TEST CHECKLIST

APPOINTMENT WITH EXAMINER:

EXAMINER’S NAME_____________________________

LOCATION ____________________________________

DATE/TIME ____________________________________

 

ACCEPTABLE AIRCRAFT

 Aircraft Documents:

Airworthiness Certificate, Registration Certificate, Operating Limitations

 Aircraft Maintenance Records:

Logbook Record of Airworthiness Inspections and AD Compliance

€ Pilot’s Operating Handbook, FAA-Approved Airplane Flight Manual

 

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

 View-Limiting Device

 Current Aeronautical Charts

 Computer and Plotter

 Flight Plan Form

 Flight Logs

 Current AIM, Airport Facility Directory, and Appropriate Publications

 

PERSONAL RECORDS

€ Identification - Photo/Signature ID

 Pilot Certificate

 Current Medical Certificate

 Completed FAA Form 8710-1, Airman Certificate and/or Rating Application with Instructor’s Signature (if applicable)

 AC Form 8080-2, Airman Written Test Report, or Computer Test Report

 Pilot Logbook with appropriate Instructor Endorsements

 FAA Form 8060-5, Notice of Disapproval (if applicable)

 Approved School Graduation Certificate (if applicable)

 Examiner’s Fee (if applicable)

 

EXAMINER’S PRACTICAL TEST CHECKLIST

Airplane Single-Engine Land

APPLICANT'S NAME_______________________________

LOCATION_______________________________________

DATE/TIME______________________________________

 

I. PREFLIGHT PREPARATION

 A. CERTIFICATES AND DOCUMENTS

 B. WEATHER INFORMATION

 C. CROSS-COUNTRY FLIGHT PLANNING

 D. NATIONAL AIRSPACE SYSTEM

 E. PERFORMANCE AND LIMITATIONS

 F. OPERATION OF SYSTEMS

 G. AEROMEDICAL FACTORS

 H. PHYSIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF NIGHT FLYING

 I. LIGHTING AND EQUIPMENT FOR NIGHT FLYING

 

II. PREFLIGHT PROCEDURES

 A. PREFLIGHT INSPECTION

 B. COCKPIT MANAGEMENT

 C. ENGINE STARTING

 D. TAXIING

 E. BEFORE TAKEOFF CHECK

 

III. AIRPORT OPERATIONS

 A. RADIO COMMUNICATIONS AND ATC LIGHT SIGNALS

 B. TRAFFIC PATTERNS

 C. AIRPORT, TAXIWAY, AND RUNWAY SIGNS, MARKINGS, AND LIGHTING

 

IV. TAKEOFFS, LANDINGS, AND GO-AROUNDS

 A. NORMAL AND CROSSWIND TAKEOFF AND CLIMB

 B. NORMAL AND CROSSWIND APPROACH AND LANDING

 C. SOFT-FIELD TAKEOFF AND CLIMB

 D. SOFT-FIELD APPROACH AND LANDING

 E. SHORT-FIELD TAKEOFF AND CLIMB

 F. SHORT-FIELD APPROACH AND LANDING

 G. GO-AROUND

 

V. PERFORMANCE MANEUVERS

 A. STEEP TURNS

 B. CHANDELLES

 C. LAZY EIGHTS

 

VI. GROUND REFERENCE MANEUVER

 EIGHTS ON PYLONS

 

VII. NAVIGATION

 A. PILOTAGE AND DEAD RECKONING

 B. NAVIGATION SYSTEMS AND ATC RADAR SERVICES

 C. DIVERSION

 D. LOST PROCEDURE

 

VIII. SLOW FLIGHT AND STALLS

 A. MANEUVERING DURING SLOW FLIGHT

 B. POWER-OFF STALLS

 C. POWER-ON STALLS

 D. SPIN AWARENESS

 

IX. EMERGENCY OPERATIONS

 A. EMERGENCY DESCENT

 B. EMERGENCY APPROACH AND LANDING

 C. SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT MALFUNCTIONS

 D. EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND SURVIVAL GEAR

 

X. HIGH ALTITUDE OPERATIONS

 A. SUPPLEMENTAL OXYGEN

 B. PRESSURIZATION

 

XI. POSTFLIGHT PROCEDURES

 A. AFTER LANDING

 B. PARKING AND SECURING

Commercial Pilot