No, a tailwheel endorsement does not count as a Flight Review (BFR).
Understanding the Flight Review (BFR)
A Flight Review (BFR), often referred to simply as a Flight Review, is a mandatory regulatory requirement for all certificated pilots to ensure continued proficiency and knowledge of current regulations. It must be completed every 24 calendar months to remain current and legally exercise pilot privileges.
Key components of a standard Flight Review typically include:
- A minimum of 1 hour of ground instruction covering regulations, flight rules, and general operating procedures.
- A minimum of 1 hour of flight instruction reviewing maneuvers and procedures deemed necessary by the instructor.
- It must be conducted by a qualified Flight Instructor (CFI).
Why a Tailwheel Endorsement Doesn't Qualify as a BFR
While obtaining a tailwheel endorsement involves flight training and demonstration of proficiency, it does not fulfill the requirements of a Flight Review. A CFI's endorsement for tailwheel proficiency is considered an enhancement to the privileges already inherent with your existing pilot certificate. It expands the types of aircraft you are authorized to fly (specifically, tailwheel aircraft) but does not serve as a substitute for the comprehensive regulatory review required by a BFR. The primary purpose of a tailwheel endorsement is to grant specific operating privileges, whereas a Flight Review is a broad assessment of overall pilot competency and regulatory knowledge.
Distinguishing Endorsements from Flight Reviews
It's crucial for pilots to understand the difference between specific endorsements and the periodic Flight Review:
| Feature | Flight Review (BFR) | Tailwheel Endorsement |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Regulatory requirement for continued general pilot proficiency and currency. | Adds specific aircraft operating privileges (e.g., flying tailwheel aircraft). |
| Frequency | Required every 24 calendar months. | Generally a one-time endorsement (unless recurrent training is desired or required). |
| Scope of Review | Broad assessment of pilot skills, maneuvers, and knowledge of Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). | Focused specifically on the skills and knowledge required to safely operate tailwheel aircraft. |
| Regulatory Basis | Primarily governed by FAR 61.56. | Primarily governed by FAR 61.31(c). |
| Counts Towards BFR? | Yes, if successfully completed. | No, it is a separate privilege enhancement. |
What Can Count as a Flight Review?
Several activities can satisfy the Flight Review requirement, ensuring pilots remain current:
- Successful completion of a pilot proficiency check conducted by an examiner for a new certificate or rating (e.g., an Instrument Rating checkride, Commercial Pilot checkride, or Airline Transport Pilot checkride).
- Completion of an aircraft type rating (for aircraft requiring one) by an appropriately rated examiner.
- Participation in the FAA WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program can also satisfy the Flight Review requirement if the specific phases are completed within the 24-calendar-month period. This program offers a structured way to maintain proficiency through ground and flight activities.
Practical Implications for Pilots
Understanding these distinctions is vital for maintaining legal flight status. Pilots should:
- Always be aware of their last Flight Review date to ensure compliance with the 24-calendar-month requirement.
- Plan their Flight Reviews proactively, rather than waiting until the last minute, to allow for adequate training and scheduling with an instructor.
- Consider the FAA WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program as an alternative or supplement to traditional BFRs, as it encourages continuous learning and may count towards satisfying the BFR requirement.
