Final answer:
To renew an expired instructor rating, one must often retake the qualification exam, accumulate additional flight hours, or complete a refresher course. The exact process can vary by the governing aviation authority, but renewal is generally possible even after the rating has expired.
Step-by-step explanation:
To renew an expired instructor rating that has lapsed for 6 months, 20 months, or any other period, the specific steps to follow will depend on the aviation authority of the country in which you are certified. However, the general process typically involves:
- Retaking the instructor qualification exam (renewal by retaking the instructor qualification exam) to demonstrate current knowledge of the subject matter.
- Accumulating additional flight hours or instructional experience, sometimes under the observation of a more senior instructor (renewal through additional flight hours).
- Attending a flight instructor refresher course (FIRC) if available and recognized by the aviation authority.
- In some cases, making a written request to aviation authorities for reinstatement could be necessary, explaining the circumstances and the steps taken towards competency.
It's important to note that option (a) 'Renewal is not possible after expiration' is generally incorrect as most aviation authorities do allow for renewal after expiration with certain requirements met. The exact timeframe for how long you can wait before you need to take more significant action, such as retraining or reexamination, may vary by authority. For the most accurate information, you should consult the regulations of the specific aviation authority that governs your instructor rating.