Thomas Ficarra

I recently received my PPL in January after, let us just say it took a long time getting there. Since we are all hunkered down, I was looking at getting my 14 CFR part 61 Certification in Basic Ground Instructor after reading about it on the FAA site. Several people advised me to just get the Advance but I don't have my instrument rating yet. Two questions as I am unclear the difference between the two test requirements that are required. I understand there is the BFI test and the second is a FOI (Fundamentals of Instruction) test if I don't have a teaching background. (I wonder if they'll take my Army instructor time at CGSC as credit?). First, Is the BFI one the same knowledge test I took for my PPL? Second, what books on the FAA site cover the FOI materials?  I'm looking at the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25B), and the Weight & Balance Handbook (FAA-H-8083-1B).  Both on the FAA site. Amazon sells them but they are cheap knock offs in B&W.  There is a whole library of stuff on that site to choose from.   https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/
 
I appreciate any insight on this test.

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I recently received my PPL in January after, let us just say it took a long time getting there. Since we are all hunkered down, I was looking at getting my 14 CFR part 61 Certification in Basic Ground Instructor after reading about it on the FAA site. Several people advised me to just get the Advance but I don't have my instrument rating yet. Two questions as I am unclear the difference between the two test requirements that are required. I understand there is the BFI test ... more

I recently received my PPL in January after, let us just say it took a long time getting there. Since we are all hunkered down, I was looking at getting my 14 CFR part 61 Certification in Basic Ground Instructor after reading about it on the FAA site. Several people advised me to just get the Advance but I don't have my instrument rating yet. Two questions as I am unclear the difference between the two test requirements that are required. I understand there is the BFI test and the second is a FOI (Fundamentals of Instruction) test if I don't have a teaching background. (I wonder if they'll take my Army instructor time at CGSC as credit?). First, Is the BFI one the same knowledge test I took for my PPL? Second, what books on the FAA site cover the FOI materials?  I'm looking at the Pilot’s Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25B), and the Weight & Balance Handbook (FAA-H-8083-1B).  Both on the FAA site. Amazon sells them but they are cheap knock offs in B&W.  There is a whole library of stuff on that site to choose from.   https://www.faa.gov/regulations_policies/handbooks_manuals/
 
I appreciate any insight on this test.

Show Less

I recently received my PPL in January after, let us just say it took a long time getting there. Since we are all hunkered down, I was looking at getting my 14 CFR part 61 Certification in Basic Ground Instructor after reading about it on the FAA site. Several people advised me to just get the Advance but I don't have my instrument rating yet. Two questions as I am unclear the difference between the two test requirements that are required. I understand there is the BFI test ... more

Currently there is a shelter-in-place policy active in CA. The official rules indicate that travel is only allowed for essential services.
Outdoor activity (walking, hiking, running) is allowed as long as social distance is observed.
Solo flying either for fun or practice does not seem to be 'essential', and is also not a direct 'outdoor activity', however, is needed to maintain proficiency, keep currency, and as long as it is solo, still observes social distance.
It seems though that with the current ruling (which may not be detailed enough on the flying aspect) does not allow for flying, even solo, at all.
Can AOPA get this clarified or discuss this with states/cities enforcing this?

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Currently there is a shelter-in-place policy active in CA. The official rules indicate that travel is only allowed for essential services.
Outdoor activity (walking, hiking, running) is allowed as long as social distance is observed.
Solo flying either for fun or practice does not seem to be 'essential', and is also not a direct 'outdoor activity', however, is needed to maintain proficiency, keep currency, and as long as it is solo, still observes social distance.
It ... more