An industry-led working group co-chaired by AOPA has released its final report and recommendations for creating an integrated airman certification system for pilot training, testing, and certification.
The recommendations focus on integrating the knowledge, skills, and risk management elements in each task of the existing practical test standards into a single airman certification standard used for both the knowledge and practical test. They also propose ways to streamline and consolidate FAA handbooks and other guidance materials to align with the new certification standards.
The report includes a recommendation on the adoption and implementation of an integrated airman certification system that will contain revised standards, guidance, and testing. A second recommendation was made to effectively manage the system through industry stakeholder participation and a robust and comprehensive quality management process.
“We believe our recommendations present a more practical, relevant approach to pilot training and testing,” said David Oord, manager of regulatory affairs for AOPA and co-chair of the Airman Testing Standards and Training Working Group that developed the recommendations. “Pilot testing should be based on real-world situations because that’s what pilots need to fly safely once they earn the certificate or rating.”
The FAA has made the final report and recommendations available online.
