Newton Aviator Logbook

Rules for Currency

Logbook checks currency for the following privileges according to U.S. FARs. The following describes the currently-implemented rules. (These descriptions are over-simplifications; see the full regulation for details.)

• FAR 61.57(a): Carrying passengers requires 3 takeoffs and landings within the preceding 90 days in the same category and class aircraft.
• FAR 61.57(a): Carrying passengers in a tailwheel airplane requires 3 takeoffs and landings in a taildragger within the preceding 90 days.
• FAR 61.57(b): Carrying passengers at night requires 3 takeoffs and landings at night within the preceding 90 days in the same category and class aircraft.
• FAR 61.57(c): Acting as PIC under IFR requires 6 approaches, instrument holding, and VOR tracking, in the same aircraft category, within the preceding 6 calendar months. (Special rules for gliders.)
• FAR 61.57(d): If currency under 61.57(c) lapses, it can be regained within 6 months without the need for an instrument proficiency check.
• FAR 61.23(c): A first-, second-, or third-class medical certificate expires after six, twelve, or twenty-four months, respectively, except that a third-class medical expires after thirty-six months if you were under forty when examined.
• FAR 61.56: A flight review is required every 24 months.