J.G. “Gordo” Sanders
F.A.A. DESIGNATED PILOT EXAMINER   (Birmingham FSDO)
Private, Instrument, Commercial, ATP (SEL,MEL)
CFI-Single/Multi-Engine/CFII
MEL- Piper PA-23, PA-30, PA-34, PA-44   Beech BE-55, BE-58, BE-76   Cessna 303, 310, 320, 340

 

Welcome to my website. I have set it up to provide information and assistance to those planning on taking a check ride in the near future (pilot applicants), as well as CFIs (especially recommending CFIs).  Hopefully the information will be helpful in preparing for your check ride as well as make your check ride easier. Following the recommendations and directions here will also make sure that the eligibility and paperwork requirements are met. In addition to the General Info section, I’ve set up different pages that are specific for each certificate and rating for which I'm authorized to conducts checks.  There are also links to other specific documents and information.

 

GENERAL INFORMATION APPLICABLE TO ALL CHECK RIDES

I. PREPARATION

 

Its only natural to be stressed and a little apprehensive about taking check rides.  Most of us (and probably everyone) experience that feeling.  I take several check rides a year and still get stressed and nervous about taking them.  I will do my best to reduce your stress by keeping the test as low-keyed as possible.  By being adequately prepared, you'll find that it the check ride will be less stressful.  In fact you'll probably come away learning something from it.

 

A. PREPARE YOURSELF. One of the most important things for preparing for any check ride is preparing yourself for it--- physically, mentally, emotionally, and of course be up to speed in terms of the required knowledge and skill.

 

     1. Be well rested and (to the extent possible) free of any stress and distractions. 
     2. Try to make sure you've eaten before the check ride.  You can snack during the oral, and will also have an     opportunity to grab a snack between the oral and flight portions of the test.
     3. Postpone the test if you are sick or not feeling well.  If I detect that you're sick, I'll terminate the check (see policies).
     4. Dress comfortably; but for safety, no flip flops, sandals, high heels, etc.
     5. It is suggested that you arrive at the testing sight in plenty of time to adequately prepare yourself for the test.  Also (if possible), plan on not having any commitments for several hours after the planned completion of the test (just in case there are any unexpected delays or complications).

 

B. PREPARE THE AIRPLANE- The airplane must be (legally) airworthy and appropriate for the check ride.

     1. It’s recommended that you thoroughly preflight (and maybe flight test) the airplane immediately before the scheduled check so that you have time to resolve any mechanical issues (or arrange for a backup airplane) prior to the test beginning. .  If the FBO/flight school or the aircraft’s schedule does not allow for this, you can schedule the airplane approximately 2 hours after our scheduled appointment starts.  For the purposes of the flight planning, you can use a generic POH/AFM for the make and model of the plane being used for the flight test.  You will need however, the empty weight and moment for the airplane we are using
     2. If a GPS equipped aircraft will be used on a check ride for an Instrument Rating or ATP, the unit must be IFR certified, and the navigation database must be current.   Note: Portable GPS devices will not be permitted on any flight test. 
     3. Ensure that the aircraft is legally airworthy.  This means all required inspections and other maintenance requirements have been performed, and there are no inoperative items that have not been addressed in compliance with FAR 91.213.
     4. Ensure the aircraft’s logbooks are available and properly endorsed. You will need to bring them to the test for examination. It’s recommended that you tag or mark the required inspections and maintenance items for easy reference
     5. If you are taking your check ride at Walker County (KJFX) arrive early to familiarize yourself with the airport, surrounding areas, and runway and ramp facilities.

 

C. PREPARE YOUR PAPERWORK- In order to get off to a good start, the paperwork needs to be right. If it's not, the process will take longer, or the check may have to be postponed. 

 

     1. The use of IACRA is strongly encouraged for the application process.  If IACRA will be used, make sure that you bring a completed application (form 8710-1) anyway, in case there are problems accessing or completing the IACRA application process.  If you (or your instructor) elect not to use IACRA, ensure that the application (8710-1) is properly completed and signed. Sign using Blue Ink, this makes it easier for FAA personnel to determine that this is an original document..  The application must be typed or completed electronically. A PDF version of the 8710-1 form is available here.  Check this page for common 8710-1 related errors and issues.
     2. I’ve prepared three (3) checklists that will help ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the test. You (and your instructor) are welcome to use them. These are the same checklists that I will be using during the qualification process.  They are:
        a. Appointment Checklist- I use this form to help identify any issues related to your identity, documents, or the test that may become an issue in establishing eligibility to take the test. By doing so prior to the test date, any such issues can be identified and resolved ahead of time.   If I haven't already provided you with one, please feel free to download, complete, and email it to me.  We will probably go over the information on them prior to meeting.  Your instructor can help you with it if needed.
                              Appointment Checklist- Word document
         b. Eligibility Checklist.  This checklist will list the hourly requirements, as well as the required endorsements, and flight/ground training that must be logged. Select the checklist appropriate for the certificate or rating you are to be tested for.  Note that it will be helpful (and save time) if you add up the column totals in your logbook pages.
          1. Private Pilot (SEL)
          2. Instrument Rating (SEL)
          3. Commercial Pilot (SEL)
          4. Commercial Pilot (MEL)
          5. ATP (SEL & MEL)
          6. Multi-engine Add-on (Private Pilot)
          7. Multi-engine Add-on (Commercial Pilot)
          8. Single-engine Add-on (Commercial Pilot) -- Under Construction

   *Note: A complex aircraft is not required for SE add-ons if complexity has been demonstrated during the applicant's previous successful CMEL checkride. Refer to the PTS for single engine-specific maneuvers & operations that will be required.*

        c. Check ride Checklist- This is essentially the same checklist that’s contained in the front of the PTS, except that a few items have been added.

 

D. PREPARE FOR THE TEST.

     1. The test will be conducted as per the appropriate Practical Test Standard (PTS).  You need to be familiar with this document, and be knowledgeable in all of the AREAS OF OPERATION and their TASKS appropriate for the certificate and rating you are seeking.  Your instructor should have trained you in these areas and tasks to the standards listed, and reviewed these items with you, in detail, prior to the test.  You can view the appropriate PTS here.

 

II. WHAT YOU CAN EXPECT

A. DETERMINATION OF ELIGIBILITY-

 

     1. The first thing I will need to do (after collecting the required fee) is to verify that you’re qualified to take the test.  This process involves checking your application (8710-1), logbook (more on that later), and identification.  While I’m examining the paperwork as well as the aircraft log books (the aircraft must be legally airworthy in order to fly), you will be busy completed the necessary flight planning to the day’s flight (which will be separate from any pre-assigned flight plans). I'll then give you a Pre-test Briefing, and then begin the oral portion of the test.  Checkout the link (below) for the requirements specific to the certificate/rating that you are seeking..
     2. If you’re a foreign national or a non-native English speaker, a simple and short English language test must be administered at this time (in accordance with AC60-28).  Check this link for a sample of the test.
     3.  Please let me know prior to the day of the check ride IF any of the following apply:
         a. You hold a foreign pilot certificate, and are seeking an additional rating, certificate, or removal of limitations.
         b. If you hold a dual citizenship.
         c. This is a re-test.

 

B. ORAL

If there was a flight plan assigned, it will be reviewed in detail, and will likely be a substantial part of the oral.  There will also be questions selected from each task in the PTS, as well as on any questions missed on the knowledge (written) test.  There are no trick questions. If you're well prepared (using the PTS) you should have no problem.  I would suggest that you bring your reference materials (POH/AFM, FAR/AIM, studying materials, etc...). While most of the oral exam is closed book, there are some limited items that may be able to be looked up.  Checkout the links (below) for the specific certificate/rating for more info on the oral portion.

 

C. FLIGHT TEST

Assuming the oral goes well, after a short break, and a pre-flight briefing we move onto the flight portion.  Again the PTS is the guide. As per the PTS, perfection is NOT the standard.  It may help to visualize this part of the test as an opportunity to show off your skills, and try to have fun doing so. Checkout the links (below) for the specific certificate/rating for more info on the flight portion.  Be sure to checkout the "Special Emphasis" listed in the applicable PTS.

D. DURATION: Depending on which certificate/rating you're testing for, you can expect the process to take anywhere from 3-6 hours (including breaks, briefings, and the required paperwork).  Being well prepared, and having the paperwork right will keep the time to a minimum.

 

III. THE TEST--ADDITIONAL INFO AND TIPS

A. GENERAL INFO AND HINTS

 

     1. throughout the test....
          A. I will be using a written Plan of Action (used to organize the practical test)
          B. I will be taking notes for the debrief, and to ensure check was conducted per my checklist.
          C. Oral questioning will continue throughout the test. ASA Oral Exam Guides are strongly recommended as study guides for all applicants.
     2. Three possible outcomes are:
              1) PASS = Temporary airman certificate
              2) FAIL = Notice of disapproval of application (Credit may be given for AREAS of OPERATION and TASKS completed)
              3) Letter of Discontinuance - Issued in the event the test cannot be completed once it has begun. This is not a failure, and credit will be given those
             AREAS of OPERATION and TASKS completed
     3. The test may be discontinued at anytime by either the examiner (me) or the applicant (you).
     4. The failure of one or more TASKS will result in the failure of the associated AREA of OPERATION, and therefore a failure of the TEST.
     5. In the event of a failure of a TASK /AREA of OPERATION, the examiner may elect to continue the test with the concurrence of the applicant, in order to complete as many TASKS/AREAS of OPERATION as possible or practical.
     6. If a TASK (maneuver or question) doesn’t go well, I suggest that you put it behind you and try to continue with check in order to get as much credit as possible. If you elect to continue with the test, I will usually elect to continue the test unless I see that you are unable to put it behind you and concentrate on flying the airplane and at the task at hand, or if there will be extensive retraining required.  Depending on the nature of the failure, it may be entirely possible that we could do a successful re-test after some additional training on the same day.
     7. If possible, I suggest that you arrange for the instructor who endorsed you, to be available to clear up any paperwork or qualifying issues that may arise. I’d also suggest that you have your (or another) flight instructor available in the event of a failure. If it’s just a matter of cleaning up a couple of things, time and schedule permitting, the instructor could immediately provide the additional necessary training, re-sign you off, and the re-check could be completed that same day. (The fee for a re check will depend on the extent of the re check needed).
     8. Daylight & VFR conditions are required for all tests except:
         a. Tests for an Instrument Rating, ATP, or MEL add-on can be conducted at night.
         b. Tests for ATP can be conducted at night, under IFR or VFR, and in limited IFR conditions.
         c. Tests for a Commercial or ATP can be conducted if an IFR departure is needed to reach VFR conditions, provided that the applicant holds an instrument Rating, and is current on instruments (as required by 61.57). The same hold true if an instrument approach is necessary to return to the airport of departure.
     9. For Instrument Rating, Commercial, or ATP applicants: --If a Flight Training Device is to be used, I need a copy of the Letter of Authorization for that device prior to the flight check.  Note that the number of tasks allowed to be performed in a FTD is very limited. See the appropriate PTS appendix.
     10. Foreign Students/ Applicants
           a. The address on the 8710 and medical certificate should be you home address (permanent mailing address)...not the school's address.  If you wish to have a certificate mailed to the school (or somewhere other than your home address) it should be noted on a separate piece of paper. If using IACRA,           there is a place to indicate such.
           b. It's is highly recommended that you allow (as a buffer) 2-4 weeks between the expected date of your check ride and your return home this will allow some addition time in case your course completion and check ride is delayed for any reason.
           c. If you hold a dual citizenship, you must first be cleared by the FSDO before taking the practical test.  Note that IACRA cannot be used.

 

IV. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION & LINKS

A. RATES, PAYMENT INFO, & POLICIES
     Checkrides conducted with IACRA at KJFX: $400
     Checkrides conducted with a paper 8710-1 at KJFX: $450
     CFI Initial Checkrides at KJFX: $600 (Must have FSDO referal)
      Please call for a price quote on a checkride conducted a location of your choice within the Birmingham FSDO.
     *Payment is expected prior to the beginning of the checkride, and is accepted in the form of cash only.*

 

B. INFORMATION RELATIVE TO SPECIFIC CERTIFICATES & RATINGS
     1. PRIVATE PILOT
     2. INSTRUMENT RATING
     3. COMMERCIAL PILOT
     4. ATP
     5. MULTI-ENGINE ADD-ON RATING (Private / Commercial)
     6. SINGLE-ENGINE ADD-ON RATING (Private / Commercial)
     7. ALL CERTIFICATES / RATINGS- COMMON ERRORS- For information about what have been found to be common weak areas or reasons for failures.
 
 
C. CFI INFORMATION--- CFIs click here.

V. CONTACT INFO

Feel free to email or call me to set up a check ride, or if your have any questions or issues you wish to discuss.  Also let me know if you have any comments or problems with this site.

 

Email: sandersaviation@aol.com
Hangar: 205-384-IFLY (4359)
Cell: 205-913-6058

Special thanks to DPE Jim Currier for his assistance.
 
 

© 2010-2011 Sanders Aviation, Inc.