Recurrent Training for the Cirrus Pilot

Platinum Wants You to Continue to be a Safe Cirrus Pilot

With the increased capabilities of a Cirrus aircraft, operators are now able to safely accomplish missions that were traditionally reserved for more experienced career/professional pilots. Risk increases as pilots choose to fly extended distances with the possibility of encountering multiple weather systems and navigation through complex and unfamiliar airspace and terrain. A systematic, proactive, and ongoing approach to training is needed to ensure pilots are proficient and capable of accomplishing these missions safely. The Cirrus Pilot Learning Plan provides the framework for the recommended training sequence for Cirrus owners and operators.

The Cirrus Pilot Learning Plan evolved from the existing recurrent training program in which all Cirrus Design company pilots are enrolled. Both the recurrent training program and the new learning plan focus on maintaining high levels of proficiency, self critique, and development of aeronautical decision making skills.

The Cirrus Pilot Learning Plan provides three training opportunities following the initial transition training over a twelve (12) month period. First is a 90 day Skills Refresher, followed by a 6 month Advanced Cirrus Experience Course and finally Annual Proficiency Training. Cirrus pilots should continue to complete the training events on a six (6) month cycle following the first year. These training opportunities will help Cirrus pilots maintain a high level of proficiency and safety. Maintaining proficiency will result in greater utilization of the aircraft and the overall safety of each flight mission. While no amount of flight training can substitute sound judgment and good aeronautical decision making, flight training is the best insurance available to reduce the overall risk.

All training is considered “no jeopardy” training except for the Annual Proficiency Training event which consists of a Biennial Flight Review (BFR) and/or Instrument Proficiency Check(IPC). “No jeopardy” training consists of challenging scenarios that are neither pass nor fail. “No jeopardy” training reduces the pressure of typical evaluation flights and maximizes the potential for learning by emphasizing learner-centered grading.

Cirrus pilots should utilize the Standardized Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the Cirrus General Operations Manual (GOM) developed by Cirrus Design.