Flight review requirements: the short answer
A standard FAA flight review generally includes at least one hour of ground training and one hour of flight training, followed by a satisfactory logbook endorsement. To act as pilot in command, the review or a qualifying alternative must fall within the applicable 24-calendar-month window. Exceptions and alternatives matter; use the current 14 CFR 61.56 with your instructor.
Although pilots often say “biennial flight review” or “BFR,” the regulation calls it a flight review. It is proficiency training, not an automatic two-hour signoff.
What to expect and prepare
- Ground: discuss current operating rules, weather decisions and planning for the flying you actually do.
- Flight: your instructor selects relevant procedures and maneuvers rather than using one universal maneuver list.
- Timing: allow room for briefing, aircraft preparation and additional training if needed; do not schedule around a guaranteed minimum-time finish.
- Records: have the instructor review the endorsement or qualifying alternative before assuming you may act as PIC.
How the calendar-month window works
For example, an otherwise qualifying review completed October 14, 2026 generally covers the flight-review requirement through October 31, 2028. Beginning November 1, 2028, that review alone is no longer sufficient. Other currency, medical, aircraft and operational requirements still apply.
Qualifying alternatives and important exceptions
Certain proficiency checks or practical tests can satisfy the rule. Completing an FAA WINGS phase can also qualify; merely attending a seminar is not the same as completing a phase. Student pilots with the required current solo endorsement have an exception. Instructor ground-training exceptions do not automatically waive the flight portion. Confirm which provision applies to your records.
Flight review, passenger currency and instrument currency are different
A flight review does not, by itself, establish passenger-carrying or instrument currency. Bring your recent takeoff, landing and instrument records if those privileges matter to your next flight. Ask whether a combined training session is appropriate; do not assume an IPC or ordinary lesson automatically satisfies every requirement.
Our flight review versus IPC comparison explains the different planning questions. Tell the instructor in advance if your intended flying includes night passengers, instrument operations or a long absence from flying.
Bring this checklist to your instructor
- Pilot certificate, photo identification and applicable medical documentation.
- Logbook showing the most recent flight review, practical test or other relevant endorsements.
- Recent experience totals and a candid description of areas you want to practice.
- The aircraft handbook, current checklists and relevant weight-and-balance information.
- A sample route or mission you actually expect to fly, plus your personal weather limits.
Use the ground discussion to identify gaps before the flight. A returning pilot might need several lessons; a current pilot may want focused work on an unfamiliar system or airport. Both can be useful outcomes without pretending that proficiency has a fixed expiration percentage.
What if the review is overdue or I need more training?
An overdue review does not mean the certificate itself has expired. Arrange appropriate instruction and clarify who will act as PIC. If the instructor is not ready to endorse completion, agree on further training and a follow-up plan rather than treating the first appointment as a failed checkride.
Plan a flight review at Chino Airport
Tell DuBois which aircraft you fly, your last review or practical-test date, your recent experience and the kind of flying you want to resume. Helicopter pilots should request an appropriately qualified helicopter instructor and discuss any aircraft-specific requirements. Availability and the training needed are confirmed individually.
Review current aircraft and rates, then request a flight-review appointment or call 909-597-6292. Ask for aircraft, flight instruction and ground charges separately; this page does not promise a fixed-price two-hour package.
Source and scope
This is a planning guide, not a personal determination of flight legality. The linked current regulation controls. Use your own logbook and proposed operation with an authorized instructor, including any provisions not summarized here.
Current FAA guidance
A flight review is proficiency training, not just a calendar requirement
Under 14 CFR 61.56, most pilots must complete a flight review within the preceding 24 calendar months to act as pilot in command. The regulation establishes minimum ground and flight training, but the instructor should tailor the review to the pilot, aircraft, experience, and type of flying.
The FAA's current AC 61-98E also explains flight-review and instrument-proficiency-check considerations. Completing an eligible phase of the FAA WINGS program can satisfy the flight-review requirement under the applicable rule.
Source: FAA AC 61-98E. Reviewed August 17, 2026.
