1. What is a Biennial Flight Review
The biennial flight review (BFR) is a mandatory recurrent training requirement for all certificated pilots, as outlined in 14 CFR 61.56. Despite being commonly called the "biennial flight review," the regulation simply refers to it as a "flight review" that must be completed every 24 calendar months.
This requirement applies to all pilot certificate holders, from sport pilots to airline transport pilots, regardless of their flying frequency or experience level. The flight review serves as a safety net to ensure pilots maintain current knowledge and proficiency standards.
Key Point
The flight review is not a test or checkride—it's a collaborative learning experience between you and your instructor focused on improving safety and proficiency.
The regulation requires a minimum of one hour of flight training and one hour of ground training, though the actual duration may vary based on your individual needs and proficiency level. The reviewing instructor has the discretion to extend the training if necessary to ensure you meet current standards.
2. Regulatory Requirements and Timeline
According to 14 CFR 61.56, you cannot act as pilot in command unless you have completed a flight review within the preceding 24 calendar months. The 24-month period begins from the month of completion, not the specific date.
For example, if you completed your flight review on March 15, 2023, it expires at the end of March 2025. You can complete your next flight review any time during March 2025 to remain current.
Alternative compliance methods include:
- Completing a pilot proficiency check under Part 121, 125, or 135
- Passing any pilot checkride (including additional ratings or certificates)
- Completing a phase of an FAA-sponsored pilot proficiency award program (WINGS)
- Completing a flight review as part of a recurrent training program under Part 142
Caution
Flying without a current flight review is a violation of FAR 61.56 and can result in certificate action. Plan ahead to ensure you complete your review before expiration.
3. Flight Training Components
The flight portion must include at least one hour of flight training covering maneuvers and procedures that are appropriate to your pilot certificate and aircraft category. The instructor will evaluate your proficiency in areas such as:
Basic aircraft control and maneuvering:
- Steep turns and slow flight
- Stalls and stall recovery
- Ground reference maneuvers
- Traffic pattern operations
Emergency procedures:
- Engine failure scenarios
- Emergency descents
- Forced landing procedures
- Systems malfunctions
Normal and crosswind takeoffs and landings: Your instructor may reference techniques covered in our crosswind landing guide to ensure you're proficient in challenging wind conditions.
Pro Tip
Review your logbook before the flight review to identify any maneuvers or procedures you haven't practiced recently. Be honest with your instructor about areas where you feel less confident.
4. Ground Training and Knowledge Areas
The ground training portion covers current general operating and flight rules under Part 91. This includes reviewing recent regulation changes, safety trends, and areas specific to your flying activities. Common topics include:
Weather knowledge and interpretation:
- Reading and interpreting METAR reports and TAF forecasts
- Understanding weather minimums for different flight categories
- Recognizing and avoiding hazardous weather conditions
- Proper weather briefing procedures
Airspace and air traffic control:
- Class B, C, and D airspace operations
- Special use airspace restrictions
- Communication procedures and phraseology
- Temporary flight restrictions (TFRs)
Recent regulatory changes:
- Updates to Part 91 operating rules
- ADS-B requirements and compliance
- Medical certificate requirements and BasicMed
- Currency and proficiency requirements
Your instructor should tailor the ground training to address any knowledge gaps identified during your discussion and to reflect the type of flying you do most often.
5. Effective Preparation Strategies
Proper preparation will make your flight review more efficient and valuable. Start preparing at least two weeks before your scheduled review date.
Knowledge preparation:
- Review the Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25)
- Study recent regulatory changes through AC 61-98 or AOPA updates
- Complete an online ground school refresher course
- Review emergency procedures for your aircraft type
Practical preparation:
- Fly with an instructor before the formal review if you're rusty
- Practice maneuvers you haven't performed recently
- Review your aircraft's POH, especially emergency procedures
- Ensure all required documents are current and aboard the aircraft
Key Point
Bring your logbook, medical certificate, pilot certificate, and a current chart for your area. Having these organized demonstrates professionalism and helps your instructor tailor the review to your experience.
Mental preparation: Approach the flight review with a learning mindset rather than viewing it as a test. Be prepared to discuss your recent flying experiences, any challenges you've encountered, and areas where you'd like additional training or guidance.
6. Selecting the Right Flight Instructor
The quality of your flight review depends heavily on choosing an experienced, thorough instructor. Look for CFIs who:
- Have experience with flight reviews and understand the regulatory requirements
- Are familiar with your aircraft type or similar models
- Maintain current knowledge of regulatory changes and safety trends
- Take a personalized approach rather than following a rigid checklist
Questions to ask potential instructors:
- How many flight reviews have you conducted in the past year?
- What is your typical approach to structuring the ground and flight training?
- Are you familiar with the aircraft I'll be using?
- How do you stay current on regulatory changes and safety issues?
Safety Note
Avoid instructors who promise to "just sign you off" without conducting thorough training. A proper flight review requires meaningful instruction and evaluation of your knowledge and skills.
Consider scheduling a brief meeting or phone call with potential instructors to discuss your flying background and their approach to flight reviews. This helps ensure you find an instructor who will provide the most beneficial experience for your specific needs and proficiency level.
7. Common Areas Requiring Additional Focus
Flight instructors frequently observe certain deficiencies during biennial flight reviews. Being aware of these common areas can help you prepare more effectively:
Weather-related knowledge gaps:
- Inability to properly interpret weather reports and forecasts
- Poor understanding of weather minimums and personal minimums
- Lack of awareness about density altitude effects and calculations
- Insufficient knowledge of icing conditions and avoidance strategies
Rusty flying skills:
- Poor airspeed control during slow flight and stalls
- Inconsistent altitude maintenance during maneuvers
- Difficulty with crosswind landing techniques
- Hesitation or confusion during emergency procedures
Regulatory currency issues:
- Outdated knowledge of airspace requirements
- Confusion about recent FAR changes
- Inadequate understanding of ADS-B requirements
- Poor familiarity with NOTAMs and TFR procedures
Pro Tip
Address these common deficiency areas during your preparation phase. Many can be improved through self-study and practice before your formal flight review appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I complete my biennial flight review in any aircraft I'm rated for?
Yes, you can complete your flight review in any aircraft for which you hold the appropriate category and class rating. However, the review only demonstrates proficiency in that specific aircraft type. If you regularly fly different aircraft types, consider whether you need additional training for other aircraft in your regular rotation.
What happens if I don't pass my biennial flight review?
The flight review is not a pass/fail test. If your instructor determines you need additional training to meet current standards, they simply won't endorse your logbook until you complete the necessary additional instruction. You can continue training with the same or different instructor until you meet the requirements.
How much does a biennial flight review typically cost?
Costs vary significantly by location and aircraft type, typically ranging from $300-800 for the minimum required training. Factors affecting cost include instructor rates, aircraft rental fees, and whether additional training beyond the minimum requirements is needed. Contact local flight schools for specific pricing in your area.
Can I complete the ground and flight portions on different days?
Yes, the regulation doesn't require both portions to be completed on the same day. However, both the ground training and flight training must be completed within a reasonable timeframe and with the same instructor to receive your flight review endorsement.
Do I need a current medical certificate to complete my biennial flight review?
Yes, you must hold a current medical certificate (or meet BasicMed requirements if applicable) to act as pilot in command during the flight portion of your review. The flight review cannot be completed without meeting all the requirements to legally act as PIC.