Part 61 Pilot Licences and Ratings
Part 61 prescribes rules relating to the requirements for the issue and holding of pilot licences and ratings, and student pilots, including conditions, privileges and limitations associated with those licences and ratings and student pilots.
This document is the current consolidated version of Part 61 produced by the Civil Aviation Authority, and serves as a reference only. It is compiled from the official ordinary rules that have been signed into law by the Minister of Transport and rule amendments made by Parliament in the Civil Aviation Act 1990. Copies of these official rules and amendments may be obtained from the Civil Aviation Authority or may be downloaded from the official website at: www.caa.govt.nz/
List of Rules Part 61 Pilot Licences and Ratings
- Subpart A - General
- 61.1 Purpose
- 61.3 Definitions
- 61.5 Requirement for pilot licence and ratings
- 61.7 Pilot licences, ratings, and permits
- 61.9 Validation permit for a foreign pilot licence
- 61.11 Application and qualification
- 61.13 Reserved
- 61.15 Duration of pilot licence and ratings
- 61.17 Written examinations - prerequisites and grades
- 61.19 Written examinations - unauthorised conduct
- 61.21 Flight tests
- 61.23 Reserved
- 61.25 Flight training and testing - general requirements
- 61.27 Status of flight examiners
- 61.29 Pilot logbooks - general requirements
- 61.31 Pilot logbooks - crediting flight time
- 61.33 Pilot logbooks - crediting ground time
- 61.35 Medical requirement
- 61.37 Recent flight experience
- 61.39 Biennial flight review
- 61.41 Use of lower pilot licence or rating
- 61.43 Examination for proficiency
- Subpart B - Aircraft Type Ratings
- Subpart C - Student Pilots
- Subpart D - Private Pilot Licences
- Subpart E - Commercial Pilot Licences
- Subpart F - Airline Transport Pilot Licences
- Subpart G - Flight Instructor Ratings
- 61.301 Purpose
- 61.303 Eligibility requirements
- 61.304 Issue
- 61.305 Privileges and limitations
- 61.307 Currency requirements
- 61.309 Transitional Provision for Category E flight instructors
- 61.311 Flight instructor to implement additional training under Part 61 Subpart I
- Subpart H - Recreational Pilot Licence
- Subpart I - Requirements for Training, Operation and Use of Aircraft Following a Safety Review
- 61.363 Purpose
- 61.365 Director may issue a notice in respect of training, operation and use of an aircraft
- 61.367 Process prior to issuing or amending a notice
- 61.369 Notice to be published
- 61.371 Effective date of notice
- 61.373 Amendment of notice
- 61.375 Revocation of notice
- 61.377 Transitional arrangements
- Subpart J [Reserved]
- Subpart K [Reserved]
- Subpart L - Aerobatic Flight Rating
- Subpart M - Glider Tow Rating
- Subpart N - Parachute Drop Rating
- Subpart O - Agricultural Ratings
- Subpart OA - Aerial Topdressing Rating
- 61.711 Eligibility requirements
- 61.713 Issue
- 61.715 Privileges and limitations
- 61.717 Currency requirements
- 61.719 Transitional provisions for holders of agricultural ratings
- Subpart OB - Aerial Spraying Rating
- 61.721 Eligibility requirements
- 61.723 Issue
- 61.725 Privileges
- 61.727 Currency requirements
- 61.729 Transitional provisions for holders of agricultural ratings
- Subpart OC - Aerial VTA Rating
- 61.731 Eligibility requirements
- 61.733 Issue
- 61.735 Privileges
- 61.737 Currency requirements
- 61.739 Transitional provisions for holders of agricultural ratings
- Subpart P - Pilot Chemical Rating
- Subpart Q - Instrument Ratings
- Subpart R [Reserved]
- Subpart S - Flight Examiner Ratings
- 61.901 Eligibility requirements
- 61.903 Issue
- 61.905 Privileges and limitations
- 61.907 Currency requirements
- 61.909 Revocation of existing rule part and savings
- 61.911 Flight examiner to implement additional training under Part 61 Subpart I
Part 61 Pilot Licences and Ratings
- Subpart A - General
- Subpart B - Aircraft Type Ratings
- 61.51 Purpose
This Subpart prescribes the requirements for the issue of aircraft type ratings.
- 61.53 Eligibility requirements
- (a) To be eligible for an aircraft type rating, a person must-
- (1) hold a current pilot licence for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) have conversion instruction flight experience acceptable to the Director; and
- (3) in the case of a turbine powered aircraft, have passed an approved basic turbine knowledge examination; and
- (4) demonstrate to an appropriately qualified flight instructor a satisfactory technical knowledge of the aircraft type for which the rating is required; and
- (5) demonstrate to an appropriately qualified flight instructor in a type competency demonstration the ability to perform competently all normal, abnormal, and emergency manoeuvres appropriate to the aircraft type for which the rating is required; and
- (6) if applying for an aircraft type rating for an aircraft exceeding 5700 kg MCTOW or for a multi-engine helicopter,-
- (i) have completed an approved course of technical training on the aircraft for which the aircraft type rating is required; and
- (ii) have passed an approved written examination in the normal, abnormal and emergency procedures for the operation of the aircraft's systems and in the aircraft's performance, weight and balance; and
- (7) if applying for an aircraft type rating for a single-engine helicopter not exceeding 5700 kg MCTOW, have passed an approved written examination in the normal, abnormal, and emergency procedures for the operation of the helicopter's systems and in the helicopter's performance, weight and balance. However, in the case of a helicopter of not greater than 1500 kg MCTOW, an oral examination is acceptable.
- 61.55 Issue
- (a) When the eligibility requirements of rule 61.53 have been met by the pilot, the flight instructor responsible for the type competency demonstration must-
- (1) enter the aircraft type rating in the pilot's logbook in a form acceptable to the Director; and
- (2) submit a completed copy of the type rating training record to the Director.
- (b) Notwithstanding rule 61.53, the Director may endorse an aircraft type rating on a pilot licence issued in accordance with this Part if-
- (1) the aircraft type rating has been issued to the holder of the pilot licence by an ICAO Contracting State and the holder of the pilot licence produces evidence that the aircraft type rating was obtained in a manner that is acceptable to the Director; or
- (2) the holder of the pilot licence has been approved under rule 19.405(1) to act as a test pilot for the aircraft type and completes test flight experience on the aircraft acceptable to the Director; or
- (3) the holder of the pilot licence is the holder of a Category A flight instructor rating and the aircraft type rating is for a specific aeroplane configuration provided for in rule 61.5(o) and the pilot
licence holder completes flight experience on the aeroplane acceptable to the Director; or
- (4) the holder of the pilot licence is authorised under rule 61.57 to act as a pilot or pilot-in-command of the aircraft type and completes flight experience on the aircraft, as acceptable to the Director.
- (c) On application to the Director and payment of the appropriate fee, a pilot may (in addition to a logbook entry) have their aircraft type ratings endorsed on their pilot licence.
- (d) Notwithstanding rule 61.55(a), an appropriately qualified flight instructor may issue an aircraft type rating for an aircraft type that is so similar to an existing aircraft type rating held by the pilot if the instructor is satisfied that no further conversion flight instruction or type competency demonstration is necessary and-
- (1) an appropriate entry is made in the pilot's logbook in a form acceptable to the Director; and
(2)- the flight instructor submits a certified copy of the appropriate logbook entry to the Director.
- 61.57 First of type authorisation
The Director may authorise a holder of a current flight instructor rating issued in accordance with this Part to act as a pilot or pilot-in-command of an aircraft for which the instructor does not hold an aircraft type rating. The Director may impose conditions on the authorisation as the Director considers necessary in the interests of aviation safety.
- Subpart C - Student Pilots
- 61.101 Purpose
This Subpart prescribes the requirements and limitations for a person who acts as a pilot of an aircraft (other than a microlight aircraft, hang glider, glider, powered glider or balloon) while the person does not hold a current pilot licence issued under this Part.
- 61.103 General
(a) A person who does not hold a current pilot licence issued or validated in accordance with this Part must not manipulate the controls of an aircraft unless the person is-
- (1) receiving dual flight instruction from an appropriately qualified flight instructor who occupies a pilot seat; or
- (2) acting as a pilot in command in accordance with rule 61.105.
- (b) A person receiving dual flight instruction under paragraph (a)(1) may log those hours as dual flight time.
- 61.105 Solo flight requirements
- (a) A person who does not hold a current pilot licence issued or validated under this Part must not fly an aircraft solo unless-
- (1) the person is at least 16 years of age; and
- (2) the person holds-
- (i) at least a current class 2 medical certificate issued by the Director under the Act; or
- (ii) a medical certificate, issued under rule 44(1) of the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999, that is applicable for a Class 2, 3, 4 or 5 driver licence with passenger endorsement which-
- (A) was issued within the previous 5 years; or
- (B) if the person is 40 years of age or older, was issued within the previous 24 months; and
- (3) the person is complying with all the conditions, restrictions and endorsements on the medical certificate; and
- (4) the person has sufficient ability in reading, speaking, understanding and communicating in the English language to enable them to adequately carry out the responsibilities of a pilot-in-command of an aircraft; and
- (5) the flight is authorised by the holder of a current Category A, B, or C flight instructor rating, except for a first solo flight by day or by night which must be authorised by the holder of a Category A or B flight instructor rating; and
- (6) except as provided in paragraph (c), the holder of a current Category A or B flight instructor rating has certified in the person's pilot's logbook that they have received instruction and demonstrated competence in the following:
- (i) preparation for flight;
- (ii) starting and run-up procedures;
- (iii) taxiing;
- (iv) straight and level flight;
- (v) climbing and descending;
- (vi) level, climbing and descending turns;
- (vii) take-off, circuit and landing in that type of aircraft;
- (viii) practical flight radiotelephony;
- (ix) go around procedures;
- (x) in the case of an aeroplane, stall recognition and recovery in that aeroplane type;
- (xi) in the case of an aeroplane, emergency procedures in the event of engine failure during and after take-off;
- (xii) in the case of a helicopter, hovering upwind, downwind, and crosswind;
- (xiii) in the case of a helicopter, emergency procedures, (including autorotative approach and landing) in that type of helicopter; and
- (7) the person has received dual instruction within the last 5 hours of flight experience unless otherwise authorised by the holder of a current Category A or B flight instructor rating; and
- (8) the person has had piloting experience in appropriate aircraft within the immediately preceding 30 days; and
- (9) if the flight is a solo cross country flight-
- (i) the flight is authorised by the holder of a current Category A or B flight instructor rating; and
- (ii) the person holds a valid written examination credit for a private pilot licence; and
- (10) if applicable, that the person has complied with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
- (b) The flight instructor who authorises the solo flight specified in paragraph (a)(4) must monitor the actions of the pilot during the solo flight.
- (c) In the case of a first solo flight by day, the certification in the person's pilot's logbook required under paragraph (a)(5) may be made after the completion of the first solo flight if the flight instructor is satisfied that the requirements in paragraphs (a)(6)(i) to (xiii) have been met.
- 61.107 Limitations
- (a) A person who does not hold a current pilot licence issued in accordance with this Part must not act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft-
- (1) for remuneration; or
- (2) if the aircraft is being operated for hire or reward; or
- (3) on an international flight; or
- (4) if any other person is being carried on the aircraft other than a flight examiner or flight instructor.
- (b) In addition to paragraph (a), a person who holds a medical certificate under rule 61.105(a)(2)(ii) must not act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft operating-
- (1) at night; or
- (2) into or out of a controlled aerodrome unless the licence holder has provided the Director with evidence of a successful colour vision screening test that is acceptable to the Director; or
- (3) over a congested area of a city or town, except for the purpose of take-off and landing.
Subpart D - Private Pilot Licences
61.155 Privileges and limitations
- (a) Subject to paragraph (b)(3), the holder of a current private pilot licence may-
- (1) act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft of the category for which the pilot licence is granted and for which the pilot holds an aircraft type rating, and may carry passengers in the aircraft; and
- (2) act as a co-pilot of an aircraft of the category for which the pilot licence is granted and for which the pilot holds an aircraft type rating, and which is required to be operated with a co-pilot.
- (b) The holder of a private pilot licence must not act as pilot-in-command or as co-pilot of an aircraft-
- (1) for remuneration; or
- (2) if the aircraft is being operated for hire or reward; or
- (3) if the aircraft is-
- (i) being operated at night; or
- (ii) being operated on a cross country flight; or
- (iii) a helicopter carrying a sling load-
unless an appropriately qualified flight instructor has certified in the holder's logbook that the holder has satisfactorily completed the flight training required to perform that activity; or
- (4) if applicable, unless the holder has complied with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
- (c) Despite paragraph (b)(2), the holder of a current private pilot licence may act, but not for remuneration, as pilot-in-command or as a co- pilot of an aircraft that is operated for hire or reward to tow a glider in flight, but only if the operation is under the direct control of a gliding organisation, or under the authority of an adventure aviation operator certificate issued by the Director under the Act and Part 115.
61.157 Currency requirements
A holder of a private pilot licence is required to comply with the requirements of rules 61.35 (Medical requirements), 61.37 (Recent flight experience) and 61.39 (Biennial flight review) before exercising the privileges of the holder's private pilot licence.
Subpart E - Commercial Pilot Licences
i
- 61.201 Purpose
This Subpart prescribes the requirements for the issue of a commercial pilot licence and the privileges, limitations, and currency requirements of the pilot licences.
- 61.203 Eligibility requirements
- (a) To be eligible for a commercial pilot licence, a person must-
- (1) be at least 18 years of age; and
- (2) in the case of an aeroplane and helicopter, hold a current private pilot licence for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (3) hold a current class 1 medical certificate issued under the Act; and
- (4) have the following minimum general flight time experience as a pilot comprising specific flight experience that is acceptable to the Director for the appropriate category of aircraft:
- (i) in the case of an aeroplane, 200 hours or, if undertaking a course of approved training, 150 hours;
- (ii) in the case of a helicopter, 150 hours or, if undertaking a course of approved training, 125 hours;
- (iii) in the case of a glider, 150 hours;
- (iv) in the case of a balloon, 50 hours; and
- (5) if the person seeks to exercise commercial pilot privileges during the night, have night flight time experience acceptable to the Director; and
- (6) have a valid written examination credit, or approved equivalent, that covers the following commercial pilot licence subject areas:
- (i) air law;
- (ii) flight navigation general;
- (iii) meteorology;
- (iv) principles of flight and aircraft performance (Aeroplane), (Helicopter), or (Glider), as appropriate;
- (v) general aircraft technical knowledge (Aeroplane), (Helicopter), or (Glider), as appropriate;
- (vi) balloon technical knowledge and aerostatics, (Balloon);
- (vii) human factors; and
- (7) have successfully demonstrated the following to the Director in a flight test:
- (i) knowledge in the ground examination subjects specified in paragraph (6), including those detailed in the examination knowledge deficiency reports;
- (ii) knowledge of the privileges and limitations of a commercial pilot licence;
- (iii) technical and operational knowledge relevant to the aircraft type to be used in the flight test;
- (iv) competence to operate the aircraft within its performance capabilities and limitations in accordance with the aircraft flight manual in all normal, abnormal and emergency conditions and procedures while exercising appropriate levels of judgement and command;
- (v) competence in radiotelephony (RTF) and phraseology;
- (vi) control of the aircraft at all times in a manner that ensures the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is never in doubt; and
- (vii) if applicable, comply with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
- (b) Qualifications held by a member of the New Zealand Defence Force who is in current flying practice as a first or second pilot may be accepted by the Director as meeting the requirements in-
- (1) paragraph (a)(2); and
- (2) paragraph (a)(6), if the person has passed the appropriate air law examination in the 5 years prior to applying for the issue of a commercial pilot licence; and
- (3) paragraph (a)(7).
- 61.205 Privileges and limitations
- (a) Subject to paragraph (b), a current commercial pilot licence authorises the holder to exercise the following privileges in aircraft of the same category for which the pilot licence is granted and for which the pilot holds an aircraft type rating:
- (1) any of the appropriate privileges of a private pilot licence:
- (2) act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft that is certificated for single pilot operation and engaged on an operation for hire or reward:
- (3) act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft that is certificated for multi-pilot operation and engaged on an operation for hire or reward, that is not an air transport operation:
- (4) act as co-pilot of an aircraft that is certificated for multi-pilot operation and engaged on an operation for hire or reward.
- (b) The holder of a commercial pilot licence must not act as pilot-in- command or as co-pilot of an aircraft at night, unless-
- (1) an appropriately qualified flight instructor has certified in the holder's logbook that the holder has satisfactorily completed the required night flight training; and
- (2) if applicable, that the person complies with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
- 61.207 Currency requirements
A holder of a commercial pilot licence is required to comply with the requirements of rules 61.35 (Medical requirements), 61.37 (Recent flight experience) and 61.39 (Biennial flight review) before exercising the privileges of the holder's commercial pilot licence.
Subpart F - Airline Transport Pilot Licences
- 61.251 Purpose
This Subpart prescribes the requirements for the issue of an airline transport pilot licence and the privileges and currency requirements of the pilot licence.
- 61.253 Eligibility requirements
- (a) To be eligible for an airline transport pilot licence, a person must-
- (1) be at least 21 years of age; and
- (2) hold a current commercial pilot licence for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (3) hold a current instrument rating; and
- (4) have the following minimum general flight time experience as a pilot comprising specific flight experience that is acceptable to the Director for the appropriate category of aircraft:
- (i) in the case of an aeroplane, 1500 hours:
- (ii) in the case of a helicopter, 1000 hours; and
- (5) have a valid written examination credit, or approved equivalent, that covers the following airline transport pilot licence subject areas:
- (i) air law:
- (ii) flight navigation general:
- (iii) flight planning (Aeroplane or Helicopter as appropriate):
- (iv) meteorology:
- (v) instruments and navigation aids (Aeroplane only):
- (vi) human factors:
- (vii) advanced aerodynamics, performance, and systems knowledge (Aeroplane only):
- (viii) aerodynamics and aircraft systems (Helicopter only):
- (ix) performance and loading (Helicopter only); and
- (6) subject to paragraph (b), have successfully demonstrated the following in a flight test to the Director, or an appropriately authorised flight examiner operating under the authority of an airline air operator certificate issued under the Act and Part 119, or an aviation training organisation certificate issued under the Act and Part 141, if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct the flight tests:
- (i) knowledge in the ground examination subjects specified in paragraph (a)(5), including those detailed in the examination knowledge deficiency reports:
- (ii) knowledge of the privileges and limitations of an airline transport pilot licence:
- (iii) technical and operational knowledge relevant to the aircraft type used in the flight test:
- (iv) competence to operate the aircraft within its performance capabilities and limitations in accordance with the aircraft flight manual in all normal, abnormal and emergency conditions and procedures whilst exercising appropriate levels of judgement and command:
- (v) competence in ATS procedures and phraseology:
- (vi) control of the aircraft at all times in a manner that ensures the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is never in doubt; and
- (vii) if applicable, comply with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
- (b) The flight test required under paragraph (a)(6) must be a cross country flight conducted under IFR in an aircraft that is-
- (1) a multi-engine aircraft with a MCTOW of 5700 kg or more; or
- (2) a multi-engine aircraft acceptable to the Director; or
- (3) a synthetic flight trainer that is approved for airline transport pilot licence issue flight tests.
- (c) Qualifications held by a member of the New Zealand Defence Force who has within the immediately preceding 12 months logged flight time with the New Zealand Defence Force as first pilot day/night level in an appropriate category of 2 pilot aircraft, may be accepted by the Director as meeting the requirements in-
- (1) paragraph (a)(2); and
- (2) paragraph (a)(3), if the person has passed a New Zealand Defence Force instrument flight assessment within the 3 months prior to applying for the issue of an airline transport pilot licence; and
- (3) paragraph (a)(5), if the person has passed the appropriate air law examination in the 5 years prior to applying for the issue of an airline transport pilot licence; and
- (4) paragraph (a)(6).
- 61.255 Privileges
A current airline transport pilot licence authorises the holder to exercise the following privileges in an aircraft of the same category for which the pilot licence is granted and for which the pilot holds an aircraft type rating:
- (1) any of the privileges of a private and commercial pilot licence:
- (2) act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft that is required to be operated with a co-pilot and is engaged on an air transport operation or an operation for hire or reward: -
provided that, if applicable, the person complies with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
61.257 Currency requirements
A holder of an airline transport pilot licence is required to comply with the requirements of rules 61.35 (Medical Requirements), 61.37 (Recent Flight Experience) and 61.39 (Biennial Flight Review) before exercising the privileges of the holder's airline transport pilot licence.
Subpart G - Flight Instructor Ratings
61.304 Issue
If the Director is satisfied that an applicant for a flight instructor rating has met the applicable requirements of rule 61.303, the Director may, in accordance with section 9 of the Act, issue the rating by endorsing the
applicant's pilot licence with the applicable category of flight instructor rating.
61.305 Privileges and limitations
- Category E flight instructor
- (a) An appropriate current Category E flight instructor rating authorises the holder to-
- (1) give technical and flight instruction in agricultural aircraft operations to the holder of a current pilot licence for the purpose of aerial topdressing, aerial spraying, or aerial VTA:
- (2) authorise solo practice in aerial topdressing, aerial spraying, or aerial VTA by the holder of a current pilot licence who does not hold an agricultural rating:
- (3) give conversion instruction and issue an agricultural aircraft type rating under rule 61.55, if the instructor has at least 50 hours flight time experience as pilot-in-command in the same type of aircraft to be used for instruction:
- (4) [Revoked]
- (5) conduct competency checks for agricultural ratings under rule 61.707:
- (6) conduct competency checks under Subpart OA (aerial topdressing), Subpart OB (aerial spraying), and Subpart OC (aerial VTA):
- (b) A flight instructor holding a Category E flight instructor rating must not exercise the privileges specified in-
- (1) paragraph (a) unless the flight instructor holds an appropriate pilot licence, and aircraft type rating or an authorisation under rule 61.57 for the type of aircraft being used; and
- (2) paragraph (a)(1), unless the flight instructor holds an appropriate and current rating for the agricultural aircraft operation being conducted.
- (c) [Revoked]
- Category D flight instructor
- (d) Subject to paragraphs (e), (f), and (g), an appropriate current Category D flight instructor rating authorises the holder to-
- (1) give the holder of a pilot licence instrument flight instruction to the standard required for an instrument rating using radio aids to navigation; and
- (2) conduct aircraft type ratings.
- (e) Paragraph (d) applies only to a Category D flight instructor who holds an aircraft type rating or an authorisation under rule 61.57 for the type of aircraft being used for such instruction.
- (f) The holder of a Category D flight instructor rating must not give instrument flight instruction, unless the instructor is the holder of a current instrument rating for-
- (1) the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) the approach aid or system used for instruction.
- (g) Unless an appropriately authorised flight examiner has certified in the holder's logbook that the holder has the necessary experience and demonstrated competence in that activity, the holder of a Category D flight instructor rating must not instruct-
- (1) at night; or
- (2) in a multi-engine aircraft; or
- (3) in instrument flight.
- Category C flight instructor
- (h) Subject to paragraphs (i), (j), (k), and (l), an appropriate current Category C flight instructor rating authorises the holder, when under the supervision of the holder of an appropriate current Category A or B flight instructor rating, to-
- (1) give flight instruction; and
- (2) authorise a solo flight other than a first solo flight by a student pilot by day; and
- (3) authorise a solo flight other than a first solo flight by a student pilot by night; and
- (4) record in a pilot's logbook that the pilot has complied with any requirements prescribed for pilots that require logbook certification in accordance with Category C flight instructor privileges; and
- (5) conduct aircraft type ratings.
- (i) Paragraph (h) applies only to a Category C flight instructor who holds an aircraft type rating or an authorisation under rule 61.57 for the type of aircraft being used for such instruction or assessment.
- (j) The holder of a Category C flight instructor rating must not exercise the privileges in paragraph (h) unless for at least the first 6 consecutive months and for a minimum of the first 100 hours of instructional flying, the flight instructor is under the direct supervision of the holder of a Category A or B flight instructor rating who is-
- (1) on the same aerodrome, at the same time; and
- (2) directly responsible for the flight instruction actions of the flight instructor under supervision.
- (k) The holder of a Category C flight instructor rating must not give instrument flight instruction in IMC or on an IFR flight plan, unless the instructor is the holder of a current instrument rating for-
- (1) the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) the approach aid or system used for instruction.
- (l) Unless an appropriately authorised flight examiner has certified in the holder's logbook that the holder has the necessary experience and demonstrated competence in that activity, the holder of a Category C flight instructor rating must not instruct-
- (1) at night; or
- (2) in a multi-engine aircraft; or
- (3) in the case of an aeroplane, in spinning or aerobatics.
- Category B flight instructor
- (m) Subject to paragraphs (n), (o), and (p), an appropriate current Category B flight instructor rating authorises the holder to-
- (1) give flight instruction; and
- (2) authorise a solo flight; and
- (3) record in a pilot's logbook that the pilot has complied with any requirements prescribed for pilots that require logbook certification; and
- (4) conduct aircraft type ratings; and
- (5) conduct biennial flight reviews.
- (n) Paragraph (m) applies only to a Category B flight instructor who holds an aircraft type rating or an authorisation under rule 61.57 for the type of aircraft being used for such instruction or assessment.
- (o) The holder of a Category B flight instructor rating must not give instrument flight instruction in IMC or on an IFR flight plan, unless the instructor is the holder of a current instrument rating for-
- (1) the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) the approach aid or system used for instruction.
- (p) Unless an appropriately authorised flight examiner has certified in the holder's logbook that the holder has the necessary experience and demonstrated competence in that activity, the holder of a Category B flight instructor rating must not instruct-
- (1) at night; or
- (2) in a multi-engine aircraft; or
- (3) in the case of an aeroplane, in spinning or aerobatics.
- Category A flight instructor
- (q) Subject to paragraphs (r), (s), and (t), an appropriate current Category A flight instructor rating authorises the holder to-
- (1) give flight instruction during the day or night; and
- (2) authorise a solo flight during the day or night; and
- (3) record in a pilot's logbook that the pilot has complied with any requirements prescribed for pilots that require logbook certification; and
- (4) conduct aircraft type ratings; and
- (5) conduct biennial flight reviews; and
- (6) give spinning and aerobatic instruction.
- (r) Paragraph (q) applies only to a Category A flight instructor who holds an aircraft type rating or an authorisation under rule 61.57 for the type of aircraft being used for such instruction or assessment.
- (s) The holder of a Category A flight instructor rating must not give instrument flight instruction in IMC or on an IFR flight plan, unless the instructor is the holder of a current instrument rating for-
- (1) the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) the approach aid or system used for instruction.
- (t) The holder of a Category A flight instructor rating must not instruct in multi-engine aircraft unless an appropriately authorised flight examiner has certified in that holder's logbook that the holder has the necessary experience and has demonstrated competence in that activity.
61.307 Currency requirements
- (a) A flight instructor holding a Category E flight instructor rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless the flight instructor holds a current Grade 1 agricultural rating for the same category of aircraft.
- (b) The holder of a Category D flight instructor rating must not give instrument flight instruction unless the flight instructor holds a current instrument rating.
- (c) The holder of a Category A, B, C, or D flight instructor rating must not give IFR cross-country navigation instruction, unless the flight instructor holds a current instrument rating and has completed a minimum of 50 hours as pilot-in-command on IFR cross-country operations that has been certified by a flight examiner in the instructor's logbook.
- (d) The holder of a Category B or C flight instructor rating must not give flight instruction unless within the immediately preceding 12 months,-
- (1) the flight instructor has demonstrated competency to an appropriately authorised flight examiner in accordance with the appropriate category flight instructor flight test syllabus; and
- (2) the flight examiner who conducts the competency demonstration certifies the successful completion of the check in the pilot's logbook in accordance with rule 61.29.
- (e) The holder of a Category A or E flight instructor rating must not give flight instruction unless within the immediately preceding 24 months,-
- (1) the flight instructor has demonstrated competency to an appropriately authorised flight examiner in accordance with the appropriate category flight instructor flight test syllabus; and
- (2) the flight examiner who conducts the competency demonstration certifies the successful completion of the check in the pilot's logbook in accordance with rule 61.29.
- (f) A person who completes the demonstration required by paragraphs (d) or (e) within 60 days before the date on which the flight test is required is deemed to have completed the requirements on the required date.
- (g) A flight instructor holding a Category E flight instructor rating when giving flight instruction on agricultural aircraft may count the time as flight time to meet the requirements in rule 61.701(b)(2).
- (h) The holder of a Category A or B flight instructor rating who does not meet the currency requirements for the rating, but who meets those requirements for a lower category rating, may exercise the privileges of that lower category of flight instructor.
61.309 Transitional Provision for Category E flight instructors
- (a) A person who was issued with a Category E flight instructor rating before 15 April 2016 may continue to exercise the privileges of the rating for 12 months from 15 April 2016 without demonstrating competency under rule 61.307(e).
- (b) This rule expires on 15 April 2016.
61.311 Flight instructor to implement additional training under Part 61 Subpart I
Before issuing a type rating under this Part or authorising a student pilot to fly an aircraft solo under rule 61.105, an appropriately qualified flight instructor must:
- (1) consider whether the Director has issued requirements in a notice under Subpart I in respect of an aircraft, for which the type rating is to be issued, or that the student pilot is to fly solo; and
- (2) the Director has issued requirements in a notice under Subpart I, apply and test the additional training required before issuing the rating or authorising the solo flight.
Subpart H - Recreational Pilot Licence
- 61.351 Purpose
This Subpart prescribes the requirements for the issue of a recreational pilot licence and the privileges, limitations, and currency requirements of the pilot licence.
- 61.353 Definitions
Medical Certificate, in this Subpart and as referred to in rules 61.35(b) and (d) is not recognised as a medical certificate by the Director under the rules for the purpose of Part 2A of the Act.
- 61.355 Eligibility requirements
- (a) Except as provided for in paragraph (b), to be eligible for the issue of a recreational pilot licence (aeroplane or helicopter) a person must-
- (1) be at least 17 years of age; and
- (2) hold a medical certificate, issued under rule 44(1) of the Land Transport (Driver Licensing) Rule 1999, that is applicable for a Class 2, 3, 4 or 5 driver licence with passenger endorsement which-
- (i) was issued within the previous 5 years; or
- (ii) if the person is 40 years of age or older, was issued within the previous 24 months; and
- (3)have a minimum of-
- (i) 50 hours flight time experience as a pilot in the appropriate category of aircraft comprising of solo flight time, dual flight time, instrument time, and cross-country flight time acceptable to the Director; or
- (ii) if the person is not seeking to exercise recreational pilot privileges on a cross-country flight, 40 hours flight time experience as a pilot in the appropriate category of aircraft comprising solo flight time, instrument time, and dual flight time acceptable to the Director; and
- (4) have a valid written examination credit, or approved equivalent, in the subjects contained in rule 61.153(a)(6); and
- (5) have completed terrain awareness training that is acceptable to the Director; and
- (6) have passed a flight test for the issue for a private pilot licence under rule 61.153(a)(7) except that the person must have demonstrated knowledge of the privileges and limitations of a recreational pilot licence; and
- (7) if applicable, comply with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
- (b) A person who holds a valid private pilot licence, commercial pilot licence, or an airline transport pilot licence, is eligible for the issue of a recreational pilot licence for the appropriate category of aircraft, if the person-
- (1) holds a medical certificate as required by paragraph (a)(2); and
- (2) has not met the requirements of rule 61.39 for a period of 5 years or more; and
- (3) has passed the written examination for PPL air law.
- (c) Cross country flight experience in a helicopter or aeroplane under paragraph (a)(3)(i) may be accepted by the Director as cross country flight time in the other category of aircraft.
- 61.357 Privileges and limitations
- (a) Subject to paragraph (b), the holder of a current recreational pilot licence may-
- (1) act as pilot-in-command of a single engine non-pressurised aeroplane with a MCTOW of 2000kg or less, for which the pilot holds an aircraft type rating; or
- (2) act as pilot-in-command of a single engine helicopter with a MCTOW of 1500kg or less, for which the pilot holds an aircraft type rating; or
- (3) carry a passenger, provided the passenger has been informed that the pilot does not hold a medical certificate issued under the Act.
- (b) The holder of a recreational pilot licence must not act as pilot-in- command or as co-pilot of an aircraft-
- (1) operating outside New Zealand; or
- (2) for remuneration; or
- (3) carrying more than one passenger; or
- (4) if the aircraft is being operated-
- (i) for hire and reward; or
- (ii) at night; or
- (iii) under instrument flight rules; or
- (iv) into or out of a controlled aerodrome unless the licence holder has provided the Director with evidence of a successful colour vision screening test that is acceptable to the Director; or
- (v) over a congested area of a city or town, except for the purpose of take-off and landing; or
- (5) if the aircraft is conducting-
- (i) an air operation; or
- (ii) a glider tow operation, where the glider is being operated for hire or reward; or
- (iii) a parachute drop operation; or
- (iv) an agricultural aircraft operation; or
- (v) an aerobatic flight; or
- (vi) a banner tow operation; or
- (vii) a drogue tow operation; or
- (viii) a sling load operation; and
- (6) if applicable, unless that person complies with all the requirements of a notice issued under Subpart I.
- 61.359 Changes in medical condition of RPL holder
If a holder of a recreational pilot licence is aware of, or has reasonable grounds to suspect, any change in his or her medical condition or the existence of any previously undetected medical condition that may interfere with the safe exercise of the privileges of the licence, the licence holder must not exercise the privileges of the licence unless a medical practitioner confirms the licence holder is fit to hold a medical certificate referred to in rule 61.355(a)(2).
- 61.361 Currency requirements
A holder of a recreational pilot licence must comply with the requirements of rules 61.35 (Medical requirements), 61.37 (Recent flight experience) and 61.39 (Biennial flight review) before exercising the privileges of the holder's recreational pilot licence.
Subpart I - Requirements for Training, Operation and Use of Aircraft Following a Safety Review
61.367 Process prior to issuing or amending a notice
Before issuing or amending a notice referred to in rule 61.365, the Director must-
- (1) conduct a safety review to assess the risk to aviation safety of the operation of an aircraft giving rise to particular safety concerns by taking into account-
- (i) relevant safety information concerning the operation of a particular aircraft type or the operation of aircraft in particular conditions; and
- (ii) information about how ICAO or other ICAO Contracting States are responding to the risk; and
- (iii) any other information that the Director considers may be relevant; and
- (2) consult publicly by publishing the initial or amended notice on the CAA website; and
- (3) consider-
- (i) if the aircraft manufacturer or other party can mitigate or eliminate any identified risk to aviation safety; and
- (ii) whether, if the actions identified under paragraph(i) are taken, the risks to aviation safety will be managed to a level the Director considers appropriate; and
- (4) determine, after conducting the safety review, if requirements in a notice should be issued because-
- (i) there is a significant risk to aviation safety regarding the make and model of the aircraft, including the operation of the aircraft in particular conditions; and
- (ii) the risk may be managed by the pilot of the aircraft undergoing instruction, training or assessment additional to those required under this Part before a student pilot is authorised to manipulate the controls of the aircraft or make a solo flight, or a pilot licence is endorsed with a type rating, or a pilot with an existing licence or type rating can fly the aircraft.
61.369 Notice to be published
The Director must, as soon as practicable after issuing or amending or revoking a notice referred to in rule 61.365, publish on the CAA website-
- (1) the notice; and
- (2) the reasons for the notice.
61.371 Effective date of notice
- (a) A notice made under rule 61.365 comes into force on the date specified by the Director.
- (b) In determining the date of a notice, the Director must provide reasonable time for affected parties to be made aware of the notice before it comes into force.
61.373 Amendment of notice
- (a) The Director may amend a notice made under rule 61.365 at any time.
- (b) Rules 61.367, 61.369 and 61.371, with the necessary modifications, apply to any amendment.
- (c) Despite paragraphs (a), and (b), rules 61.367 and 61.371(b) do not apply to any amendment or correction that is minor and non-controversial.
61.375 Revocation of notice
The Director may revoke a notice made under rule 61.365 at any time if the Director is satisfied that rule 61.367 is no longer necessary after having consulted publicly.
61.377 Transitional arrangements
- (a) The Robinson safety awareness training conditions first issued under section 21 of the Act on 29 October 2015 and last amended on 28 June 2017 are deemed to be requirements made under rule 61.365(a) and to have met the requirements of rule 61.367.
- (b) The requirements referred to in paragraph (a) continue in force despite the expiry of the warrant under section 21 of the Act, until amended, or revoked and replaced under this Subpart.
Subpart J [Reserved]
Subpart K [Reserved]
Subpart L - Aerobatic Flight Rating
- 61.551 Eligibility requirements
- (a) To be eligible for an aerobatic flight rating a pilot must-
- (1) have successfully completed an aerobatics ground course conducted under the authority of-
- (i) an aviation training organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 141 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct the course; or
- (ii) an aviation recreation organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 149 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct the course; and
- (2) have successfully completed an aerobatics flight training course conducted under the authority of-
- (i) an aviation training organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 141 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct the course; or
- (ii) an aviation recreation organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 149 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct the course; and
- (3) have successfully demonstrated competency in aerobatics and spinning to-
- (i) an appropriately qualified flight instructor who operates under the authority of an aviation training organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 141 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct the assessment; or
- (ii) a person who operates under the authority of an aviation recreation organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 149 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct the assessment.
- (b) A holder of the following is deemed to have met the eligibility requirements of paragraphs (a)(1) and (a)(2)-
- (1) a current aerobatic rating issued by an ICAO Contracting State:
- (2) a New Zealand Defence Force pilot qualification.
- (c) A pilot who holds a current pilot licence and has passed a New Zealand Defence Force aerobatic assessment in the 2 years prior to applying for an aerobatic flight rating is deemed to have met all the eligibility requirements of paragraph (a).
- 61.553 Issue
- (a) If the flight instructor or authorised person who conducted the competency demonstration required by rule 61.551 is satisfied that the pilot complies with rule 61.551, the flight instructor or authorised person may issue the aerobatic rating by entering the following statement in the pilot's logbook:
I certify that on [date of assessment] [name of pilot and client number] satisfied the requirements of Part 61 of the Civil Aviation Rules for the issue of an aerobatic rating.[enter the date, full name, signature, and licence number of the flight instructor or authorised person issuing the rating].
- (b) The holder of an aerobatic flight rating issued under paragraph (a) or a pilot meeting the requirements of rule 61.551(c) may apply to the Director to have the rating endorsed on the holder's pilot licence.
- (c) On receipt of an application under paragraph (b) and payment of the applicable fee, the Director may endorse the pilot licence with the aerobatic flight rating.
- (d) To avoid doubt, a statement of endorsement made in a pilot's logbook prior to 15 April 2016 is deemed to satisfy the requirements of paragraph (a) of rule 61.551.
- 61.555 Privileges and limitations
- (a) Subject to the privileges and limitations of the pilot licence or certificate held, a current aerobatic flight rating authorises the holder to conduct aerobatic manoeuvres within the following limitations:
- (1) at a height not less than 3000 feet above the surface while carrying a passenger:
- (2) at a height not less than 1500 feet above the surface while not carrying a passenger:
- (3) at a height less than 1500 feet above the surface while not carrying a passenger when authorised by the holder of an aviation recreation organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 149, if the certificate authorises the holder to organise aviation events.
- 61.557 Currency requirements
- (a) A holder of an aerobatic flight rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless,-
- (1) within the previous 24 months, the holder has successfully demonstrated competency in accordance with the requirements of rule 61.551(a)(3); and
- (2) the flight instructor or authorised person who conducts the competency demonstration certifies the successful completion of the check in the pilot's logbook in accordance with rule 61.29.
- (b) A pilot who successfully completes the competency demonstration within 60 days before the date on which it is required is deemed to have completed the demonstration on the required date.
Subpart M - Glider Tow Rating
Subpart N - Parachute Drop Rating
Subpart O - Agricultural Ratings
- 61.701 Eligibility
- (a) To be eligible for the issue of a Grade 2 agricultural rating (Aeroplane or Helicopter) a person must-
- (1) hold at least a current private pilot licence for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) have a minimum of 200 hours flight time experience as a pilot, including a minimum of 100 hours as pilot-in-command in the appropriate category of aircraft, before commencing training for an agricultural rating; and
- (3) successfully complete a course of agricultural ground and flight training; and
- (4) [Revoked]
- (5) [Revoked]
- (6) hold a pilot chemical rating; and
- (7) successfully complete a training course in one or more of the following ratings:
- (i) aerial topdressing rating:
- (ii) aerial spraying rating:
- (iii) aerial VTA rating; and
- (8) successfully demonstrate competency in agricultural aircraft operations to a flight examiner holding an appropriate current agricultural flight examiner rating.
- (b) To be eligible for the issue of a Grade 1 agricultural rating (Aeroplane or Helicopter), a person must-
- (1) hold at least a current commercial pilot licence for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) have a minimum of 1000 hours productive flight time experience dispensing agricultural chemical or other substance directly affecting agriculture, horticulture or forest preservation, including a minimum of 200 hours as pilot-in-command of the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (3) successfully demonstrate competency in agricultural aircraft operations to a flight examiner holding an appropriate current agricultural flight examiner rating.
- (c) The training required by paragraph (a)(3), and the demonstration of competency required by paragraphs (a)(8) and (b)(3) must be conducted under the authority of-
- (1) an agricultural aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the operator to conduct the training or competency assessment; or
- (2) an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141 that authorises the organisation to conduct the training or competency asessment.
- 61.703 Issue
- (a) If the flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration required by rule 61.701(a)(8) or (b)(3) is satisfied that the person is competent to perform agricultural aircraft operations, the flight examiner must-
- (1) submit a copy of the flight test report to the Director; and
- (2) enter the following statement in the pilot's logbook:
I certify that on [date of assessment] [name of pilot and licence number] demonstrated competency in agricultural aircraft operations in accordance with rule (61.701(a)(8)* (61.701(b)(3)*) of the Civil
Aviation Rules for the issue of a (Grade 2)* (Grade 1)* agricultural rating (aeroplane)* (helicopter)* with an (aerial topdressing rating)* (aerial spraying rating)* (aerial VTA rating)*. [date of entry, full name, signature and licence number of flight examiner].
* delete as applicable
- (b) [Revoked]
- (c) A person who has a logbook entry made in accordance with paragraph (a)(2) must apply to the Director under rule 61.11(a) for the issue of the agricultural rating before exercising the privileges of the rating.
- (d) On receipt of an application under paragraph (c) and payment of the applicable fee, the Director may endorse the pilot licence with the agricultural rating.
- (e) [Revoked]
- (f) [Revoked]
- (g) [Revoked]
- 61.705 Privileges and limitations
- (a) Subject to paragraph (b), Part 137, and the privileges and limitations of the holder's pilot licence, a holder of a current agricultural rating may act as pilot-in-command of an aircraft performing an agricultural aircraft operation.
- (b) A holder of a Grade 2 agricultural rating must not act as pilot-in- command of an aircraft performing an agricultural aircraft operation if, under Part 137, there is a third party risk.
- 61.707 Currency requirements
- (a) Subject to paragraph (d), a holder of an agricultural rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless-
- (1) within the preceding 12 months the holder has successfully demonstrated, to a holder of a category E flight instructor rating or a holder of an agricultural flight examiner rating, competency to perform an agricultural aircraft operation in an appropriate
aircraft category and applicable to the agricultural ratings being exercised; and
- (2) the flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration has entered the following statement in the pilot's logbook:
I certify that on [date of assessment] [name of pilot and licence number] demonstrated competency in agricultural aircraft operations in accordance with rule 61.707(a)(1) of the Civil Aviation Rules for continued currency of a (Grade 2)* (Grade 1)* agricultural rating (aeroplane)* (helicopter)* performing (aerial topdressing)* (aerial spraying)* (aerial VTA)*. Next competency demonstration due on [enter date 12 months from date of assessment or 12 months from due date in accordance with paragraph (c) whichever is later]. [enter date of log book entry, and full name, signature and licence number of flight instructor or flight examiner].
* delete as applicable
- (b) A pilot who successfully completes the competency demonstration within 60 days before the date on which the demonstration is required is deemed to have completed the demonstration on the required date.
- (ba) The flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration must complete the appropriate CAA form and submit a copy of the completed form to the Director and to the pilot.
- (c) A holder of a Grade 1 agricultural rating must not act as pilot-in- command of an aircraft performing an agricultural aircraft operation if, under Part 137, there is a third party risk unless-
- (1) the holder has at least 25 hours flight time experience as a pilot- in-command on the type of aircraft being used; and
- (2) 10 of the required hours have been accumulated within the immediately preceding 12 months.
- (d) Despite paragraph (a), a holder of an agricultural rating must not dispense an agricultural chemical from an aircraft on an agricultural aircraft operation unless they hold a current pilot chemical rating.
61.709 Transitional provisions for agricultural ratings
- (a) This rule applies to current agricultural ratings issued before 15 April 2016.
- (b) A pilot who holds a rating to which this rule applies may exercise the privileges of the rating-
- (1) until and on the date the pilot's demonstration of competency is due under rule 61.707, if the pilot holds a current pilot chemical rating:
- (2) after the date the pilot's demonstration of competency is due under rule 61.707, if-
- (i) the pilot successfully demonstrates competency in accordance with rule 61.707 by the due date; and
- (ii) the pilot applies to the Director under rule 61.11(a) for the issue of the agricultural rating; and
- (iii) the Director, at the Director's discretion, grants the agricultural rating on receipt of an application, and payment of the applicable fee.
- (c) Despite paragraph (b)(2), a pilot may continue to exercise the privileges of a rating to which this rule applies, not exceeding 30 days after applying to the Director under paragraph (b)(2)(ii).
61.710 Validation permit
A person who holds a current validation permit for a foreign pilot licence equivalent to a pilot licence required by rule 61.701(a) or (b) and who holds a qualification that the Director accepts as equivalent to an agricultural rating under rule 61.701 may apply to the Director under rule 61.11(a) to have the equivalent agricultural rating endorsed on the validation permit.
Subpart OA - Aerial Topdressing Rating
- 61.711 Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for an aerial topdressing rating, a person must-
- (1) hold at least a current Grade 2 agricultural rating for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) satisfactorily complete a training course consisting of both ground training and flight instruction in aerial topdressing operations conducted under the authority of an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141, or an agricultural aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the holder to conduct aerial topdressing training courses; and
- (3) successfully demonstrate competency in aerial topdressing operations to a Category E flight instructor or an agricultural flight examiner operating under the authority of an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141, or an agricultural aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the holder to conduct aerial topdressing rating competency assessments.
- 61.713 Issue
- (a) If the flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration required by rule 61.711(3) is satisfied that the pilot complies with rule 61.711, the flight instructor or flight examiner may issue the aerial topdressing rating by entering the following statement in the pilot's logbook:
I certify that on [date of assessment] [name of pilot and licence number] satisfied the requirements of Part 61 of the Civil Aviation Rules for the issue of an aerial topdressing rating for (aeroplanes)* (helicopters)*. [enter the date, full name, signature, and licence number of the flight instructor or flight examiner issuing the rating].
- (b) The holder of an aerial topdressing rating may apply to the Director to have the rating endorsed on the holder's pilot licence.
- (c) On receipt of an application under paragraph (b) and payment of the applicable fee, the Director may endorse the pilot licence with the rating.
- 61.715 Privileges and limitations
Subject to the privileges and limitations of the holder's pilot licence, a holder of an agricultural rating and an aerial topdressing rating may act as
pilot-in-command of an appropriate category of aircraft performing an aerial topdressing operation.
- 61.717 Currency requirements
- (a) A holder of an aerial topdressing rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless within the previous 12 months the holder has successfully demonstrated competency under rule 61.711(3) and the flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration has certified the successful completion of the demonstration in the holder's logbook.
- (b) A pilot who successfully completes the competency demonstration within 60 days before the date on which it is required is deemed to have completed the demonstration on the required date.
- 61.719 Transitional provisions for holders of agricultural ratings
- (a) This rule applies to current agricultural ratings issued before 15 April 2016.
- (b) A pilot who holds a rating to which this rule applies may exercise the privileges in rule 61.715 until the currency period for the agricultural rating expires if the pilot holds a current pilot chemical rating.
- (c) A pilot in paragraph (b) who successfully demonstrates competency under rule 61.717 before the expiry of the agricultural rating-
- (1) is deemed to comply with rule 61.711(2); and (2) may be issued with an aerial topdressing rating.
Subpart OB - Aerial Spraying Rating
- 61.721 Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for an aerial spraying rating, a pilot must-
- (1) hold at least a current Grade 2 agricultural rating for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) satisfactorily complete a training course consisting of both ground training and flight instruction in aerial spraying operations conducted under the authority of an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141, or an agricultural aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the holder to conduct aerial spraying rating training courses; and
- (3) successfully demonstrate competency in conducting agricultural aircraft operations on aerial spraying to a Category E flight instructor or agricultural flight examiner operating under the authority of an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141, or an agricultural aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the holder to conduct aerial spraying rating competency assessments.
- 61.723 Issue
- (a) If the flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration required by rule 61.721(3) is satisfied that the pilot complies with rule 61.721, the flight instructor or flight examiner may issue the aerial spraying rating by entering the following statement in the pilot's logbook:
I certify that on [date of assessment] [name of pilot and client number] satisfied the requirements of Part 61 of the Civil Aviation Rules for the issue of an aerial spraying rating for (aeroplanes)* (helicopters)*. [enter the date, full name, signature, and licence number of the flight instructor or flight examiner issuing the rating].
- (b) The holder of an aerial spraying rating may apply to the Director to have the rating endorsed on the holder's pilot licence.
- (c) On receipt of an application under paragraph (b) and payment of the applicable fee, the Director may endorse the pilot licence with the aerial spraying rating.
- 61.725 Privileges
Subject to the privileges and limitations of the holder's pilot licence, a holder of an agricultural rating and an aerial spraying rating may act as pilot-in-command of an appropriate category of aircraft performing an aerial spraying operation.
- 61.727 Currency requirements
- (a) A holder of an aerial spraying rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless within the previous 12 months the holder has successfully demonstrated competency under rule 61.721(3) and the flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration has certified the successful completion of the demonstration in the holder's logbook.
- (b) A pilot who successfully completes the competency demonstration within 60 days before the date on which it is required is deemed to have completed the demonstration on the required date.
- 61.729 Transitional provisions for holders of agricultural ratings
- (a) This rule applies to current agricultural ratings issued before 15 April 2016.
- (b) A pilot who holds a rating to which this rule applies may exercise the privileges in rule 61.725 until the currency period for the agricultural rating expires, if the pilot holds a current pilot chemical rating. (c).
- (c) A pilot in rule 61.727 (b) who successfully demonstrates competency before the expiry of the agricultural rating-
- (1) is deemed to comply with rule 61.721(2); and (2) may be issued with an aerial spraying rating.
Subpart OC - Aerial VTA Rating
- 61.731 Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for an aerial VTA rating a pilot must-
- (1) hold at least a Grade 2 agricultural rating for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) satisfactorily complete a training course in aerial VTA operations consisting of both ground and flight instruction conducted under the authority of an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141, or an agricultural
aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the holder to conduct aerial VTA rating training courses; and
- (3) successfully demonstrate competency in aerial VTA operations to a Category E flight instructor or agricultural flight examiner operating under the authority of an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141 or an agricultural aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the holder to conduct aerial VTA authorisation competency assessments.
- 61.733 Issue
- (a) If the flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration required by rule 61.731(3) is satisfied that the pilot complies with rule 61.731, the flight instructor or flight examiner may issue the aerial VTA rating by entering the following statement in the pilot's logbook:
I certify that on [date of assessment] [name of pilot and client number] satisfied the requirements of Part 61 of the Civil Aviation Rules for the issue of an aerial VTA rating for (aeroplanes)* (helicopters)*.[enter the date, , full name, signature, and licence number of the flight instructor or flight examiner issuing the rating].
- (b) The holder of an aerial VTA rating may apply to the Director to have the rating endorsed on the holder's pilot licence.
- (c) On receipt of an application under paragraph (b) and payment of the applicable fee, the Director may endorse the pilot licence with the aerial VTA rating.
- 61.735 Privileges
Subject to the privileges and limitations of the holder's pilot licence, a holder of a current agricultural rating and an aerial VTA rating may act as pilot-in-command of an appropriate category of aircraft performing an agricultural aircraft operation on aerial VTA.
- 61.737 Currency requirements
- (a) A holder of an aerial VTA rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless within the previous 12 months the holder has successfully
demonstrated competency under rule 61.731(3) and the flight instructor or flight examiner who conducted the competency demonstration has certified the successful completion of the demonstration in the holder's logbook.
- (b) A pilot who completes the competency demonstration within 60 days before the date on which it is required is deemed to have completed the demonstration on the required date.
- 61.739 Transitional provisions for holders of agricultural ratings
- (a) This rule applies to current agricultural ratings issued before 15 April 2016.
- (b) A pilot who holds a rating to which this rule applies may exercise the privileges in rule 61.735 until the currency period for the agricultural rating expires, if the pilot holds a current pilot chemical rating.
- (c) A pilot in rule 61.737 (b) who successfully demonstrates competency before the expiry of the agricultural rating-
- (1) is deemed to comply with rule 61.731(2); and
- (2) may be issued with an aerial VTA rating.
Subpart P - Pilot Chemical Rating
Subpart Q - Instrument Ratings
- 61.801 Eligibility requirements
- (a) Except as provided in paragraphs (b) and (c), to be eligible for an instrument rating (Aeroplane or Helicopter), a person must-
- (1) hold a pilot licence, which includes the night flying privileges for the pilot licence, for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (2) have flight time experience acceptable to the Director; and
- (3) successfully complete a ground training course, in the following subject areas:
- (i)
air law: rules and regulations relevant to flight under IFR; related air traffic service practices and procedures; pre- flight preparations and checks appropriate to flight under IFR; operational flight planning; preparation and filing of flight plans under IFR; altimeter setting procedures; interpretation and use of aeronautical documentation such as AIP, NOTAM, aeronautical codes and abbreviations, and instrument procedure charts for departure, en-route, descent and approach; precautionary and emergency procedures; safety practices associated with flight under IFR; radiotelephony procedures and phraseology as applied to aircraft operations under IFR; action to be taken in case of communication failure:
- (ii) flight navigation - IFR: practical air navigation using radio navigation aids; use, accuracy and reliability of navigation systems used in departure, en-route, approach and landing phases of flight; identification of radio navigation aids:
- (iii) meteorology: interpretation and application of aeronautical meteorological reports, charts and forecasts; use of, and procedures for obtaining, meteorological information, pre-flight and in-flight; altimetry; aeronautical meteorology; climatology of relevant areas in respect of the elements having an effect upon aviation; the movement of pressure systems, the structure of fronts, and the origin and characteristics of significant weather phenomena which affect take-off, en-route, and landing conditions; hazardous weather avoidance:
- (iv) instruments and navigation aids: use, limitation and serviceability of avionics and instruments necessary for the control and navigation of aircraft under IFR and in instrument meteorological conditions; use and limitations of autopilot; compasses, turning and acceleration errors; gyroscopic instruments, operational limits and precession effects; practices and procedures in the event of malfunctions of various flight instruments:
- (v) human factors: human performance and limitations; and
- (4) successfully complete a flight training course conducted by an appropriately qualified flight instructor comprising a minimum 10 hours of dual instruction in the appropriate category of aircraft in the following subject areas:
- (i) pre-flight procedures, including the use of the flight manual or equivalent document, and appropriate air traffic service documents in the preparation of an IFR flight plan:
- (ii) pre-flight inspection, use of checklists, taxiing and pre- take-off checks:
- (iii) procedures and manoeuvres for IFR operation under normal, abnormal, and emergency conditions covering at least: transition to instrument flight on take-off; standard instrument departures and arrivals; en-route IFR procedures; holding procedures; instrument approaches to
specified minima; missed approach procedures; and landings from instrument approaches:
- (iv) in-flight manoeuvres and particular flight characteristics:
- (v) for multi-engine aircraft, the operation of the aircraft solely by reference to instruments with 1 engine inoperative or simulated inoperative; and
- (5) have a valid written examination credit, or approved equivalent, that covers approved written examinations in the subject areas described in paragraph (a)(3); and
- (6) successfully demonstrate to the Director (by undertaking a flight test in an appropriate aircraft or in an approved synthetic flight trainer) the ability to competently perform the procedures, manoeuvres, and operations described in paragraph (a)(4) that are applicable to the navigation systems on which the applicant is being tested, and the ability to-
- (i) operate the aircraft within its limitations; and
- (ii) complete all manoeuvres with smoothness and accuracy; and
- (iii) exercise good judgement and airmanship; and
- (iv) apply aeronautical knowledge; and
- (v) control the aircraft at all times in a manner that ensures the successful outcome of a procedure or manoeuvre is never in doubt.
- (b) To be eligible for an instrument rating, a holder of an unrestricted equivalent rating issued by an ICAO Contracting State must-
- (1) have a valid written examination credit in the subject of air law described under paragraph (a)(3)(i); and
- (2) pass the flight test required by paragraph (a)(6).
- (c) A person who holds a New Zealand Defence Force instrument rating and has passed a New Zealand Defence Force instrument flight assessment in the 3 months prior to applying for an instrument rating meets the eligibility requirements of paragraphs (a)(2) to (a)(6).
- 61.803 Issue
- (a) If the Director is satisfied that an applicant for an instrument rating has met the requirements of rule 61.801, the Director may issue the rating as an endorsement on the applicant's pilot licence.
- (b) A holder of an instrument rating may apply to the Director to have any additional approach aid or system endorsed on the holder's pilot licence.
- (c) On receipt of an application under paragraph (b) and payment of the applicable fee, the Director may endorse the additional approach aid or system on the holder's pilot licence.
- 61.805 Privileges and limitations
- (a) Subject to paragraph (b), a current instrument rating authorises the holder to act as a pilot-in-command or co-pilot of an appropriate aircraft operating under IFR.
- (b) To exercise the privileges of an instrument rating,-
- (1) the holder must, in the case of a single-pilot aircraft, have passed the flight test required by rule 61.801(a)(6) or rule 61.801(c) to the single-pilot standard; and
- (2) the holder must, in the case of a non-centreline-thrust multi- engine aeroplane, have passed the flight test required by rule 61.801(a)(6) or rule 61.801(c) on a non-centreline-thrust multi- engine aeroplane; and
- (3) if the holder is carrying out an instrument approach procedure under IFR, a flight examiner must certify in the holder's logbook that the holder has satisfactorily demonstrated competency on that approach aid or system; and
- (4) if the holder holds only a class 2 medical certificate, the holder must meet the class 1 hearing standards prescribed in Part 67 and this must be endorsed on their class 2 medical certificate.
- 61.807 Currency requirements
- (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b), the holder of an instrument rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless the holder has,-
- (1) within the immediately preceding 12 months,-
- (i) successfully demonstrated to a flight examiner competency in accordance with rule 61.801(a)(6) for the appropriate category of aircraft; and
- (ii) the person who conducts the competency demonstration certifies the successful completion of the check in the pilot's logbook in accordance with rule 61.29; and
- (2) within the immediately preceding 3 months,-
- (i) either met the requirements of paragraph (a)(1) or completed at least 3 hours instrument time (which must have included at least 1 hour instrument flight time); and
- (ii) carried out at least 3 published instrument approach procedures (1 of which may be performed in an approved synthetic flight trainer); and
- (3) if acting as a pilot of a non-centreline-thrust multi-engine aircraft under IFR, demonstrated the competency required in paragraph (a)(1) in a non-centreline-thrust multi-engine aircraft; and
- (4) if carrying out an instrument approach procedure under IFR, within the immediately preceding 3 months, performed in flight or in an approved synthetic flight trainer a published instrument approach procedure using a similar type of navigation system; or
- (5) if conducting an IFR operation under the authority of an air operator certificate issued in accordance with Part 119, satisfied the IFR competency requirements in Part 121, 125 or 135 as appropriate.
- (b) The holder of an instrument rating who does not comply with paragraph (a)(2) may act as support pilot of an aircraft on an IFR flight if the aircraft is not performing an air operation.
- (c) A pilot who successfully completes the demonstration required by paragraph (a)(1) within 60 days before the date on which it is required is deemed to have completed the demonstration on the required date.
Subpart R [Reserved]
Subpart S - Flight Examiner Ratings
- 61.901 Eligibility requirements
- (a) To be eligible for the issue of an airline flight examiner rating, a person must-
- (1) in the case of operations in accordance with Part 125 and Part 135, hold at least an appropriate commercial pilot licence; and
- (2) in the case of operations in accordance with Part 121, hold an airline transport pilot licence (Aeroplane); and
- (3) hold a current Category A, B, or D flight instructor rating; and
- (4) have flight experience acceptable to the Director; and
- (5) successfully demonstrate to the Director the ability to perform the duties of an airline flight examiner; and
- (6) successfully complete an approved flight examiner training course in the 12 months prior to applying for an airline flight examiner rating, or such other period acceptable to the Director.
- (b) To be eligible for the issue of a general aviation flight examiner rating, a person must-
- (1) hold an appropriate Category A flight instructor rating; and
- (2) have flight experience acceptable to the Director;
- (3) successfully demonstrate to the Director the ability to perform the duties of a general aviation flight examiner; and
- (4) complete an approved flight examiner training course in the 12 months prior to applying for a general aviation flight examiner rating or such other period acceptable to the Director.
- (c) To be eligible for the issue of an agricultural flight examiner rating, a person must-
- (1) hold at least an appropriate current commercial pilot licence; and
- (2) hold an appropriate current Category E flight instructor rating; and
- (3) have flight time experience that is acceptable to the Director, including:
- (i) total flight time:
- (ii) pilot-in-command flight time:
- (iii) if applicable, aerial topdressing flight time:
- (iv) if applicable, aerial spraying flight time:
- (v) if applicable, aerial VTA flight time:
- (vi) flight instruction time; and
- (4) successfully demonstrate to the Director the person's ability to perform the functions of an agricultural flight examiner; and
- (5) complete an approved flight examiner training course in the 12 months prior to applying for an agricultural flight examiner rating, or such other period acceptable to the Director.
- 61.903 Issue
If the Director is satisfied that an applicant for a flight examiner rating has met the applicable requirements of rule 61.901, the Director may issue the rating by endorsing the applicant's pilot licence with the applicable flight
examiner rating and endorsing the pilot's logbook with the applicable flight examiner authorisation.
- 61.905 Privileges and limitations
Airline Flight Examiner Rating
- (a) Subject to paragraph (d), the holder of a current airline flight examiner rating may conduct those flight tests for which authorisation has been granted by the Director for the issue of pilot licences or for the issue or renewal of ratings, required by this Part, or for operational competency assessments, within an organisation operating under
- (1) an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct those flight tests; or
- (2) an air operator certificate issued under Part 119 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct those flight tests.
General Aviation Flight Examiner Rating
- (b) Subject to paragraph (d), the holder of a current general aviation flight examiner rating may conduct those flight tests for which authorisation has been granted by the Director for the issue of pilot licences or for the issue or renewal of ratings, required by this Part, or for operational competency assessments for a helicopter, and for aeroplanes having a certified passenger seating capacity, excluding any required crew seat, of 9 seats or less, within an organisation-
- (1) operating under an aviation training organisation certificate issued in accordance with Part 141 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct those flight tests; or
- (2) operating under an air operator certificate issued in accordance with Part 119 if the certificate authorises the holder to conduct those flight tests; or
- (3) that employs, contracts, or engages a person who holds a delegation from the Director to conduct those flight tests.
Agricultural flight examiner rating
- (ba) Subject to paragraph (d), the holder of a current agricultural flight examiner rating may conduct those flight tests for which authorisation has been granted by the Director for the issue or renewal of ratings required by this Part, or for operational competency assessments, within an organisation-
- (1) operating under an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141 that authorises the holder to conduct those flight tests; or
- (2) operating under an agricultural aircraft operator certificate issued under Part 137 that authorises the holder to conduct those flight tests; or
- (3) that employs, contracts, or engages a person who holds a delegation from the Director to conduct those flight tests.
Restricted Flight Examiner Rating
- (c) Subject to paragraph (d), the holder of a current restricted flight examiner rating may exercise the privileges for which authorisation has been granted by the Director within an organisation operating under an aviation training organisation certificate issued under Part 141 that authorises the conduct of flight tests.
All Flight Examiner Ratings
- (d) In order to exercise the privileges of any flight examiner rating, the holder must hold an appropriate current flight instructor rating with an aircraft type rating for the aircraft in use.
- (e) Notwithstanding paragraph (d), the holder of a flight examiner rating is not required to hold a current medical certificate or be current on type if the holder is not acting as a required crew member.
- 61.907 Currency requirements
- (a) The holder of a flight examiner rating must not exercise the privileges of the rating unless, within the immediately preceding 24 months, the flight examiner has successfully demonstrated to the Director competence to exercise the privileges of the rating.
- (b) For the holder of an airline flight examiner rating, the demonstration of competence required by paragraph (a) must include an approved synthetic flight trainer segment or flight segment, or both if required by the Director-
- (1) on the heaviest aircraft type (MCTOW) on which the flight examiner will examine, or on such other aircraft as the Director may require; and
- (2) in accordance with the requirements in Part 121, 125, or 135 as appropriate to the privileges being sought.
- (c) A pilot who successfully completes the demonstration required by paragraph (a) within 60 days before the date on which it is required is deemed to have completed the demonstration on the required date.
- 61.909 Revocation of existing rule part and savings
- (a) Part 61 which came into force on 5 November 1992 and its amendments 1 to 10 are revoked and replaced by this Part 61 Re-issue.
- (b) To avoid doubt the following continue to have force if done before the commencement of this Part 61 Re-issue on 15 April 2016:
- (1) All licences, ratings and other aviation documents issued under Part 61 prior to 15 April 2016:
- (2) All privileges and limitations exercised by aviation document holders under Part 61 prior to 15 April 2016:
- (3) All written examination or test results and credits granted under Part 61 prior to 15 April 2016:
- (4) All flight test results granted under Part 61 prior to 15 April 2016:
- (5) All entries crediting flight time in pilot logbooks granted under Part 61 prior to 15 April 2016:
- (6) All recent flight experience and flight reviews recorded under Part 61 prior to 15 April 2016:
- (7) All forms applied for or issued under Part 61 prior to 15 April 2016.
- 61.911 Flight examiner to implement additional training under Part 61 Subpart I
Before conducting a flight test for which authorisation has been granted by the Director for the issue of pilot licences or for the issue or renewal of ratings, an appropriately qualified flight examiner must:
- (1) consider whether the Director has issued requirements in a notice under Subpart I in respect of an aircraft for which the licence or type rating is to be issued; and
- (2) if the Director has issued a notice under Subpart I, apply and test the additional training required before issuing the rating.