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PTS Used for Flight Training *and* Testing?

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Flight Instructor

Am studying for the FOI (Fundamentals of Instruction) and the test prep says "We have received feedback that the FAA is grading the answer, "flight training and testing" to the question "The Practical Test Standards (PTS) should be used for..."  as correct. However the current Flight Training Handbook says, "It must be emphasized the PTS book is a testing document, not a teaching document.""

What would you give as an answer if you got this question on the FOI knowledge test?

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2 Answers



  1. Kris Kortokrax on Jan 27, 2015

    The “T” in PTS stands for test, not training.

    The question you are asking is one designed to derive an answer which will be graded as correct on a test.

    The proper aircraft training handbooks and other reference material are training guides.
    The PTS is a testing guide.

    If an incorrect answer is being accepted as correct, that answer should be challenged.

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  2. Wes Beard on Jan 31, 2015

    The PTS is primarily used as a testing document. Since we all know what the standard is for passing the test, doesn’t it make sense to use that as a minimum standard for training?

    I agree with the flight training handbook that the PTS doesn’t specify how the maneuver is to be accomplished just the standard for passing it. Other FAA materials teach how the maneuver is to be performed.

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