Private Pilot ACS Overview

Overview

This lecture introduces a detailed series on the Private Pilot Airman Certification Standards (ACS), focusing on preparing for the check ride by understanding certification requirements, ACS structure, and practical application through scenario-based questions.

Airman Certification Standards (ACS) Structure

• The ACS is divided into Areas of Operation (Roman numerals), Tasks (letters), and Elements (knowledge, risk management, skills).
• Each Element has a unique code (e.g., PA.I.A.K1 for Private Pilot, Area I, Task A, Knowledge 1).
• The ACS serves as the examiner's guide and is the basis for both oral and flight portions of the practical test.

Preparing for the Private Pilot Check Ride

• Confirm you meet all requirements listed in 14 CFR 61.109 (aeronautical experience).
• Review with your instructor to ensure all requirements are satisfied before the check ride.
• The check ride is split into oral (ground) and flight evaluations.
• The oral exam primarily covers Area of Operation I: Preflight Preparation.

Task A: Pilot Qualifications

• Broken into three subcategories: Knowledge, Risk Management, and Skills.
• Examiner must evaluate at least one knowledge element, one risk management element, and all skill elements per task.
• Scenario-based questions are used to assess understanding, not just memorization.

Key Scenario Topics in Pilot Qualifications

• Certification requirements, recent flight experience, and recordkeeping (refer to 14 CFR 61.57).
• Privileges and limitations of the Private Pilot certificate (see 14 CFR 61.113).
• Required pilot documents: government-issued photo ID, pilot certificate, and current medical certificate.
• Distinction between proficiency (actual skills) and currency (legal requirements/met criteria).
• Medical certificate classes, expiration, and alternatives such as BasicMed.
• Legalities of expense sharing (Prorata share) and the necessity of a common purpose.
• Limitations on compensation, carrying passengers/property for hire, and "holding out" for the public.
• Risk management: unfamiliar aircraft or avionics and ensuring personal minimums are met.

Key Terms & Definitions

• ACS (Airman Certification Standards) — FAA guide outlining required knowledge, risk management, and skills for certification.
• Currency — Meeting regulatory requirements (e.g., 3 takeoffs/landings in 90 days to carry passengers).
• Proficiency — Actual ability and competence to safely operate an aircraft.
• PIC (Pilot in Command) — Person responsible for the operation and safety of the flight.
• Prorata Share — Private pilots must pay at least their fair share of fuel, oil, airport, and rental expenses.
• Common Purpose — Pilot and passengers must have a shared reason for the flight to legally split expenses.
• BasicMed — Alternative to a third-class medical certificate, with certain limitations.
• Holding Out — Offering pilot services to the public, which is forbidden for private pilots.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Review 14 CFR 61.109 and 61.113 for experience and limitation requirements.
• Cross-reference missed knowledge codes from your written test with the ACS.
• Prepare for scenario-based oral questions by understanding the real-world application of ACS elements.
• Preview next lecture on Airworthiness Requirements (Area I, Task B).