Understanding Pilot in Command (PIC) time is crucial for any aspiring or current pilot. It’s not just about logging hours; it signifies responsibility, decision-making, and leadership in the cockpit. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about PIC time, from the official FAR definitions to practical strategies for maximizing your hours.
Decoding PIC: Definition and Importance
PIC time isn’t simply about manipulating the controls; it’s about being the ultimate authority and responsible party for the safe operation of a flight, as defined in 14 CFR Part 1.1. This includes preflight planning, in-flight decision-making, and post-flight procedures. PIC time is essential for certifications, insurance, career advancement, and demonstrating your experience and proficiency.
Logging PIC: A Step-by-Step Guide
Accurate logging is critical. Here’s how to correctly log PIC time:
- Confirm Eligibility: Verify you hold the correct certifications, ratings, and endorsements for the aircraft and planned operation.
- Assume Command: Actively manipulate the controls and make decisions regarding the flight’s trajectory and maneuvers.
- Meticulous Documentation: Record the date, aircraft type and tail number, departure and arrival airports, and precise PIC time in your logbook.
Specific Flight Scenarios and PIC
Solo Flight
All flight time logged during solo flight is PIC time.
Flight with Passengers
As PIC, you log the entire flight duration, even if other rated pilots are onboard.
Dual Instruction
- Student: Students log PIC time only when manipulating the controls under the supervision of an instructor.
- Instructor: CFIs log PIC time while providing instruction.
Simulated Flight
Some simulator time can be logged as PIC, but only under specific conditions outlined in FAR 61.51. This may include certain approved simulator types and training programs.
Safety Pilot Flights
You can log PIC time with a safety pilot onboard if you are acting as PIC and actively manipulating the controls. Clear pre-flight communication is essential to define roles and logging procedures. The safety pilot may log Safety Pilot In Command (SPIC) or Second-in-Command (SIC) time, as appropriate.
Simulated Instrument Conditions
The pilot under the hood logs PIC time for manipulating the controls. The safety pilot may log PIC time under specific shared responsibility circumstances related to the safety of the flight, as described in regulations. Effective pre-flight discussion is again vital to clarify roles, responsibilities and subsequent logging.
Night Flying: The 90-Day Rule (FAR 61.57)
To carry passengers at night, pilots must have performed three takeoffs and landings to a full stop within the preceding 90 days in the same category, class, and type of aircraft (if a type rating is required). These takeoffs and landings must occur between one hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise.
Common Logging Errors and How to Avoid Them
- Over-logging: Log only the time you actually served as PIC.
- Night Currency Lapses: Stay current with the 90-day rule.
- Incomplete Entries: Ensure each logbook entry is thorough and includes all required information. Missing details can invalidate the entry. If a correction is needed, draw a single line through the incorrect information, initial and date the correction, then write the correct information next to it. Never erase or use white-out.
Maximizing PIC Time: Efficient Strategies
- Become a CFI: This is an excellent way to rapidly build PIC time while earning an income.
- Safety Pilot Duties (Where Applicable): In certain limited situations, you can earn PIC while acting as a safety pilot. Check current regulations carefully. Ongoing research suggests that the benefits of logging PIC as a safety pilot mainly lie in the increased situational awareness and decision-making practice it provides, rather than as a primary avenue for accumulating hours.
- Towing Gliders: This specialized activity can offer significant PIC time, requiring a dedicated endorsement.
- Join a Flying Club: Sharing aircraft ownership reduces costs and improves access, increasing PIC opportunities.
- Structured Time-Building Programs: These programs offer discounted rates and optimized schedules for efficient hour-building
- Volunteer Opportunities: Volunteering for example with Civil Air Patrol, might provide some limited PIC time.
- Leverage SIC Time: While not PIC, some multi-engine SIC time can count towards ATP minimums.
Future of PIC: Technological Considerations
Advancements in autonomous flight systems may impact the definition of PIC. Staying informed about these developments is critical. Some experts believe that remote piloting might eventually qualify for a form of PIC time, while others suggest completely new categories will be necessary. Research in this area is ongoing, and the future definition of PIC remains a topic of active discussion. There is debate around how automation will impact the pilot’s role and the “sole manipulator” concept.
FAQ
- Can I log PIC time in a simulator? Potentially, depending on the simulator’s certification, the training being conducted, and any conditions specified in FAR 61.51. Some advanced simulators allow for PIC logging under specific approved scenarios. This is especially relevant for training programs that integrate simulator time to replicate real-world flight experience.
- What if I make a logbook mistake? Draw a single line through the incorrect entry, initial it, date it, and write the corrected information beside it.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult current FARs and a certified flight instructor for official guidance.
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