Recurrent Training: What Pilots Need To Know  

scott.fank • Sep 27, 2022

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Are you trying to figure out how you can become a pilot? You have likely already done research on the education requirements to earn your license, but were you aware it doesn’t end there? Once you receive your license, you will still need to attend additional training in the following years. This training is known as recurrent training. You should be aware of the amount of lifelong learning you will need to commit to if you’re looking to obtain a pilot’s license. This way you won’t face any surprises and can fully be up for the challenge! We will tell you all about recurrent training for pilots, why it is valuable, and what to expect.

What is Recurrent Training for Pilots?

Pilots must go through many hours of ground schooling and flight sessions in order to learn to fly. But your work isn’t finished just because you received the initial license. Recurrent training for pilots is essentially continued education that pilots must additionally commit to as a requirement to maintain their license. You can expect to participate in these training sessions at least once a year, where you can complete the courses either online or in person.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulates all training pilots need, including what kind of recurrent training needs to be completed. A lot of the checks will be similar each year for training, but each session won’t be identical. There will always be mandated courses you need to take for your license, as dictated by the FAA, but if you’re an airline transport pilot, some airlines may require their own unique training. For instance, some recurrent training may focus on certain scenarios, or some pilots working at airports that experience a lot of turbulent weather may want additional training for those pilots to navigate difficult weather conditions.

Why is Recurrent Training Required?

Remember, this additional training isn’t designed to be a boring nuisance, or a punishment if you underperform during training. The objective of recurrent training is meant to catch you before you think “I may have gotten rusty with this skill.” Everyone knows you can improve skills with lots of practice, but what happens when you simply don’t have the opportunity to practice a skill because you never run across a rare situation? Recurrent training gives you this time to practice maneuvers you don’t routinely perform, so you can confidently maneuver tricky situations should they ever occur. Many pilots who have found themselves in dangerous situations will attest to the importance of brushing up on important skills that could be the difference maker in making it through safely.

And when you’re responsible for the safety of other passengers, staying sharp on all required skills becomes especially important.

Aircraft evolves just like any other piece of technology. It’s important to remain current on any advancements or changes to instruments, tools, or aircraft specifications as they change over time. Well-structured training supplies you with knowledge of any policy or procedure changes and new equipment that has been released since you were originally learning to fly. Think of it as the FAA’s way of officially informing you of relevant information through these short yearly meetings.

How Long is Pilot Recurrent Training ?

You can typically complete a recurrent training program within just a couple of days, depending on if you’re attending an annual session, or biannual sessions. The frequency, duration, and testing for recurrent training varies depending on the license you hold. Those who are career airline pilots will need to do more training than someone who just holds a private pilot’s license. However, you can argue that private pilot’s license holders can benefit from recurrent training the most, assuming they aren’t flying nearly as often as career airline transport pilots. Even though private pilot’s license holders aren’t responsible for dozens of passengers, it can still be extremely risky for individuals to fly when they are in need of a lot of refreshers.

If you’re looking for the easiest way to get through your training as quickly as possible, then you can start by practicing often! There’s no need to wait for your scheduled recurrent training to brush up on your skills. Find a flight instructor who is willing to accompany you on flights, or help you study. There are also plenty of books or educational materials to review any topic a pilot needs to know. Keep current and you’ll be able to breeze through any required recurrent training.

Get Started with an Accelerated Training Program at J.A. Flight Training

Now that you’re familiar with the extra amount of training you will need even after you receive your license, we’re sure you will want to get your initial training out of the way as quickly as possible. Eager to get started? J.A. Flight offers a career pilot program to cater to different types of students. We accept all kinds of students, from high school graduates to people looking for a career change. Our accelerated program allows you to become a commercial airline pilot in as little as 300 hours! Whether you’re looking for a new hobby or you’re already a graduate looking to further your professional pilot career. Regardless of your level of experience, J.A. Flight will provide the fastest and clearest path to learning to fly.

Ready to learn from the best flight school in Chicagoland? We are not only going to fast track you on your way to becoming a pilot, but we’ll also find you a placement and stick with you when the recurrent training gets tough. We want to see you succeed, and will always be on standby when you need a little extra help brushing up on those tough skills. There’s no better time to start than now. Contact us today and connect with one of our experienced flight instructors to find out more about our aircraft, flight simulators, modern equipment, and more!

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