Final answer:
To maintain currency as a PIC, a pilot must complete three takeoffs and landings within 90 days, a flight review every 24 months, and for instrument-rated pilots, perform certain instrument procedures every six months. If these are not met, additional training or proficiency checks are required.
Step-by-step explanation:
To maintain currency to act as Pilot In Command (PIC), a pilot must adhere to the regulations set forth by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). For pilots flying under part 91, these involve having completed a minimum number of takeoffs and landings within a specific period and may include the need for a flight review every 24 months, per FAR 61.56. Specifically, a pilot must have completed at least three takeoffs and three landings within the previous 90 days in an aircraft of the same category, class, and type (if required), with landings to a full stop if the operations are conducted in a tailwheel airplane or at night.
For instrument-rated pilots, to maintain instrument currency, FAR 61.57(c) requires that within the past six months, the pilot must have performed: (1) at least six instrument approaches, (2) holding procedures and tasks, and (3) interception and tracking courses through the use of navigational electronic systems.
If a pilot does not meet these requirements within the given timeframe, they must complete a flight review with an instructor or pass an instrument proficiency check to regain PIC currency.