Regulation Text
(a) Initial, transition, upgrade, requalification, and differences training for pilots must include flight and practice in each of the maneuvers and procedures contained in each of the curriculums that are a part of the approved training program.
(b) The maneuvers and procedures required by paragraph (a) of this section must be performed in flight, except to the extent that certain maneuvers and procedures may be performed in an aircraft simulator, or an appropriate training device, as allowed by this subpart.
(c) If the program manager's approved training program includes a course of training using an aircraft simulator or other training device, each pilot must successfully complete—
(1) Training and practice in the simulator or training device in at least the maneuvers and procedures in this subpart that are capable of being performed in the aircraft simulator or training device; and
(2) A flight check in the aircraft or a check in the simulator or training device to the level of proficiency of a pilot in command or second in command, as applicable, in at least the maneuvers and procedures that are capable of being performed in an aircraft simulator or training device.
The short answer
(14 CFR § 91.1103) requires initial, transition, upgrade, requalification, and differences training for pilots to include flight and practice in each maneuver and procedure in the approved curriculums, performed in flight except where a simulator or training device is permitted by this subpart.
Research Notes
Common Questions
Can pilot maneuvers be done in a simulator instead of the aircraft?
Maneuvers must be performed in flight except to the extent certain ones may be done in an aircraft simulator or appropriate training device as allowed by this subpart.
“The maneuvers and procedures required by paragraph (a) of this section must be performed in flight, except to the extent that certain maneuvers and procedures may be performed in an aircraft simulator, or an appropriate training device, as allowed by this subpart.” — 14 CFR § 91.1103(b)
What must a pilot complete when a simulator course is used?
The pilot must complete training and practice in the device, plus a flight check or simulator check to the PIC or SIC proficiency level.
“(1) Training and practice in the simulator or training device in at least the maneuvers and procedures… and (2) A flight check in the aircraft or a check in the simulator or training device to the level of proficiency of a pilot in command or second in command, as applicable…” — 14 CFR § 91.1103(c)
Which categories of pilot training does this section cover?
It covers initial, transition, upgrade, requalification, and differences flight training.
“Initial, transition, upgrade, requalification, and differences training for pilots must include flight and practice in each of the maneuvers and procedures contained in each of the curriculums that are a part of the approved training program.” — 14 CFR § 91.1103(a)
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