Final answer:
Pilots must demonstrate their proficiency every 24 months through a Flight Review, which includes both ground instruction and flight time with a certified flight instructor to ensure ongoing safety and compliance with aviation standards.
Step-by-step explanation:
All pilots are required to demonstrate ongoing proficiency in their flying skills. To ensure the safety of air travel, there is a mandated reevaluation period where a pilot must demonstrate their capabilities. This reevaluation process is known as a Flight Review, and it must be completed every 24 calendar months as part of a pilot's continuous certification requirements.
The Flight Review typically involves both ground instruction and flight time with a certified flight instructor (CFI). During this review, pilots must show that they have the knowledge and flying proficiency in accordance with the standards set by the regulatory body, such as the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in the United States.
The Flight Review is not only a regulatory requirement but also an opportunity for pilots to refresh their skills, go over important safety procedures, and stay up-to-date with any changes in aviation regulations and technology. It usually consists of a minimum of 1 hour of flight training and 1 hour of ground training. The ground segment covers general operating and flight rules, while the flight segment includes maneuvers and procedures that, at the discretion of the person giving the review, are necessary for the pilot to demonstrate the safe exercise of the privileges of the pilot certificate.
It's important to note that the requirement for a Flight Review is different from other recurring training requirements, such as instrument proficiency checks, which are specifically for pilots who fly under instrument flight rules (IFR). Failure to complete a Flight Review within the required time frame will mean that the pilot is not legally able to act as the pilot in command of an aircraft until they have successfully completed the review.