FAA Notice N8900.204 - English Proficiency

I spoke this week to a newly minted CFIG at my home club's board
meeting. He is about as steeped as you can get on analyzing the tea
leaves for the latest and greatest FAA "leanings".

We agreed that there are several stops along the path of who can spot
and resolve issues with non-English proficient students.

1) FSDO - When the candidate applies for a student certificate. If
accepted by the FSDO, this implies a "English proficiency" blessing
from the FAA. At least in some limited way. Right? Hmmmmm.
2) CFIG - During initial training towards solo.
3) FAA Exam Site - During written exam. This would be a clear
stopping point if they fail due to lack of English (written)
proficiency. Of course reading a foreign language is easier than
either speaking, verbally understanding or writing a foreign language.
4) DPE - During a check ride (oral and practical).

The point here is that when my club accepts a student, we are not
incurring direct responsibility to determine proficiency or to "turn
in" someone who is not. We do have some "moral" responsibility to not
lead someone down a path that they will clearly fail.

That being said, to cover our bases, we have decided to update our
application process to ask potential new members if they are "English
Proficient", and if they are US citizens, along with the words, "As
required by the Federal Aviation Administration."

- John

I just was told by that same CFIG that both an AME and DPE can write
student pilot's certificates. Who knew??

- John

American English is a foreign language!

Mike

On Thursday, February 14, 2013 11:44:25 PM UTC-5, Mike the Strike wrote:
American English is a foreign language! Mike

I am working with a coupls of guys here in SC who I am sure would not pass that test as far as the spoken part goes. I see their lips move but am not sure if there are actually words being formed! ;-)
Uli

FSDO or DPE can issue a Student Pilot certificate for students learning in aircraft that do not require a medical evaluation.
Gliders, Balloon, and I think Light Sport airplane. It will state, limited to glider or balloon.

An AME is required for the Class 3 medical evaluation and can issue the student certificate with medical certificate.
T

On Friday, February 15, 2013 8:55:48 PM UTC-8, T wrote:
FSDO or DPE can issue a Student Pilot certificate for students learning in aircraft that do not require a medical evaluation.

Gliders, Balloon, and I think Light Sport airplane. It will state, limited to glider or balloon.


" . . . limited to glider or balloon."
Please share your reference requiring this statement when you issue Student Pilot Certificates in your DPE handbook Order 8900.2 chg. 1.

I can't locate it and I need to know if this is new!
By the way, in what FAA region are you an Examiner?
Thanks.