Proficiency checks assess all the competencies a pilot needs to fly safely when working for an operator. Checks normally happen after initial, recurrent or remedial training as set out in the operator's training and checking system.
Proficiency checks may also meet the requirements:
- for flight reviews
- to renew certain operational ratings
- for instrument proficiency checks.
For this to apply, an appropriate examiner or check pilot must conduct the check, and include any additional elements.
Who conducts the proficiency check
An authorised check pilot conducts proficiency checks. They observe pilots during flight or simulation and assess them against the standards. An operator's training and checking system sets out who can be a check pilot, including:
- the selection processes
- what qualifications they need
- their training requirements
- supervision requirements.
A Part 138 operator's Head of Operations may do some proficiency checks.
Operators and head of training and checking must ensure their pilots are competent and have successfully completed the operator's training requirements and relevant checks.
Flexibility for pilots who fly multiple aircraft types
If an operator's training and checking system includes recognition of prior learning, they may be able to reduce the resources needed to complete checks. Operator proficiency checks (OPCs) can recognise certain generic elements of a pilot's competency in one aircraft type as the same elements in another aircraft type.
Example 1: Combining checks for similar aircraft types
An OPC may require pilots to demonstrate competence in:
- threat and error management
- radio procedures
- weather assessments
- compliance with operator standard practices.
If a pilot shows competence in these skills when flying one aircraft type, the operator may elect to not conduct a flight check in another aircraft type. Instead, they may assess these skills on the ground.
Example 2: When a complex aircraft covers a simpler aircraft
An operator may require a pilot to fly a variety of single-engine aircraft from the same manufacturer. Some aircraft are complex and others are simpler. In such cases, the operator may choose to do the OPC in the air using the most complex aircraft.
For the simpler aircraft, the operator may elect to assess the pilot's competence on the ground using oral and written questions focusing on the differences between aircraft types.
Examples of differences may include:
- where the more complex aircraft has additional systems, such as a manual propeller pitch control system, a retractable undercarriage system or a cabin pressurisation system
- where there are different aircraft systems and operating limitations, such as turbo charged or fuel injection systems compared to carburettor equipped aircraft
- the normal flight planning and standard operating procedures due to dot points 1 and 2
- abnormal or emergency procedures.
If operators wish to combine OPCs, the Head of Training and Checking will need to design training and checking programs for each individual pilot. These should consider their demonstrated competencies and aircraft they are to fly.
Please refer to your exposition and our multi-part guidance for full information. Section 2.3 includes worked examples.