Risk-based Flight Review and WINGS

Outreach Guidance Document

2023/10-29-299(I)PP

This outreach guidance is provided to all FAA and aviation industry groups that are participating in outreach efforts sponsored by the General Aviation Joint Steering Committee (GAJSC).  It is important that all outreach on a given topic is coordinated and is free of conflicts.  Therefore, all outreach products should be in alignment with the outline and concepts listed below for this topic.

Outreach Month:  March 2025

Topic: Risk-based Flight Review and WINGS

This program introduces the concept of basing Flight Reviews on risks that pilots run during normal flight operations and on those risks associated with new aircraft and/or flight environments. The program also emphasizes the benefits of participation in the FAA WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program.

Background: 

Safety Risk Management is a major contributor to safer and more effective General Aviation flight operations.  A Risk-based Flight Review can identify hazards and risks associated with pilot operations and provide guidance in eliminating or mitigating those risks to acceptable levels. 

The FAA WINGS Pilot Proficiency Program is one way for general aviation pilots to ensure they are competent, confident, and safe in their flight operations.

Note:  This program discusses WINGSPro activities.  We suggest you invite local WINGSPros to attend and to assist with the presentation.

Teaching Points:

• The basic elements of Safety Risk Management are Hazard Identification, Risk Assessment, and Risk elimination or mitigation to acceptable levels.
• Conducting a Risk-based Flight review is one way to introduce Safety Risk Management to General Aviation pilots. It also serves to identify risks associated with individual pilots’ flight operations and to devise strategies to eliminate or mitigate those risks to acceptable levels. .
• WINGS Pilot Proficiency Training is one means to maintain and improve pilot proficiency.
• The WINGS Topic of the Quarter is an easy way to pursue regular proficiency training.
• Completion of any phase of WINGS satisfies the 14 CFR 61.56 requirements for Flight Reviews.
• A cadre of WINGSPros is available to assist Flight Instructors and pilots with WINGS.

References:

• Risk-Based Flight Review and WINGS PowerPoint
• Conducting an Effective Flight Review – FAASafety.gov Library
• AC 61-91J – WINGS – Pilot Proficiency Programs
• AC 61-98D – Currency Requirements and Guidance for the Flight Review and Instrument Proficiency Check
• FAASafety.gov
• Off Airports Ops Guide https://www.faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/libview_normal.aspx?id=135893
• Personal Minimums Development Guide https://www.faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/lib_categoryview.aspx?categoryId=15&r_s=50&r_c=50
• WINGS Information and Guidance https://faasafety.gov/gslac/ALC/lib_categoryview.aspx?categoryId=39