Understanding Aviation Currency vs. Proficiency
In this video, Jason Schappert and Jamie explore the important distinction between currency and proficiency in aviation. While currency refers to meeting the FAA’s minimum regulatory requirements, proficiency goes beyond the checklist to ensure that pilots are truly safe, confident, and prepared for real-world flying.
What Does Currency Mean for Pilots?
Currency is defined as doing the bare minimum required by regulations. For example:
- Completing three takeoffs and landings within 90 days to carry passengers.
- Logging six instrument approaches within six months to remain instrument current.
While these actions meet FAA requirements, they don’t always guarantee comfort, skill, or readiness to handle unexpected challenges, especially when carrying family and friends.
Proficiency: Going Beyond the Minimum
Proficiency focuses on practical experience and comfort in the flight deck. Pilots who are proficient go beyond just checking the box. They ask:
- “Would I feel comfortable taking my spouse or children flying?”
- “Have I flown enough recently to handle changes in weight and performance with passengers on board?”
Proficiency means practicing regularly, refining skills, and maintaining the confidence needed to operate safely.
Pursuing Aviation Mastery
Jason and Jamie emphasize that proficiency should lead with mastery, a continuous pursuit of improvement. Just as martial artists don’t stop at a black belt, pilots shouldn’t stop once they meet regulatory minimums. Aviation mastery involves:
- Learning from mistakes with humility.
- Sharing experiences to help others.
- Striving for growth, not just compliance.
Mastery is not a destination but a mindset: a lifelong journey of learning, refining, and advancing as an aviator.
How Will You Pursue Proficiency
Jason and Jamie challenge pilots to reflect on their personal growth in aviation. Meeting the minimum keeps a pilot legal, but striving for proficiency and mastery makes them safe, confident, and truly skilled.
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